The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) is on a mission to become a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)-recognised professional body, paving the way for nature guides to gain the recognition they deserve and ensuring that South Africa continues to lead the charge in world-class field guiding.
In line with the South African government’s 2021 Tourism Sector Masterplan and Professionalisation Strategy, FGASA is making the leap from being a CATHSSETA-accredited training provider to a fully-fledged professional body for the nature guiding sector. This move not only elevates the standards of the industry but also aligns with the country’s broader tourism goals to ensure we produce the best guides on the planet.
Since its inception in 1991 as a non-profit organisation, FGASA has strived to set professional standards for field guiding, offering qualifications ranging from entry-level to specialist. In that time, over 40 000 field guides have passed through FGASA’s ranks, leaving a trail of highly skilled professionals in their wake.
Michelle du Plessis, FGASA’s Managing Director, explains: “By becoming a recognised professional body, we’ll be able to represent field guides more effectively, push for their continued professional development, and ensure the qualifications are up to date and meet the evolving needs of the industry.”
One of the most significant changes on the horizon is that FGASA will no longer be offering entry-level accredited programmes for nature guides from June 2026. This marks the end of enrolment for the expiring CATHSSETA programmes. Going forward, aspiring guides will need to pursue their entry-level qualifications through the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). However, those currently in training will have a three-year ‘teach-out’ period to complete their certification, ensuring that no one is left behind.
During this transition, FGASA will continue collaborating with partners across the industry, providing guidance to develop new qualifications that will seamlessly transition the current training system into the new professional body model. “We’ve been working hand-in-hand with CATHSSETA and other key industry players to ensure the new qualifications are crafted on time and meet the evolving needs of nature guiding,” says du Plessis.
As FGASA progresses through the registration process with SAQA, the professional body will open up new opportunities for its members. “By registering as a professional body, we’ll not only advocate for the interests of our members but also help ensure the maintenance of the highest standards in the sector, while pushing for greater diversity and transformation,” adds du Plessis.
This shift is all about formalising standards, awarding professional designations, and providing continuous professional development for nature guides. “It’s the best thing that could happen to the guiding industry,” she says. “This move positions nature guiding as a respected profession, ensuring that guides are recognised as skilled experts within the tourism sector, just like any other professional career.”
FGASA’s work will contribute to South Africa’s continued dominance in the global field guiding arena, boosting the country’s tourism competitiveness. “By professionalising the sector, we’re not just supporting the guides – we’re helping to grow and elevate South Africa’s entire tourism industry,” concludes du Plessis. Aspiring nature guides who want to know more or have questions about this exciting shift can contact FGASA at marketing@fgasa.org.za.
