A Controversial Pathway that was used to Register PR Agents
The South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) plays a crucial role in regulating and professionalizing the construction industry in South Africa.
One of its core functions is the registration of construction professionals, including Project Managers, Construction Managers, and Professional Construction Agents (PR Agents). While the SACPCMP’s mission is to ensure high standards of competence and professionalism within the industry, the inclusion of a controversial “grandfather clause” has raised concerns about its process and procedure used.
I will be breaking down some key aspects which needs to be shared and deliberated over.
Understanding the Grandfather Clause
The “grandfather clause,” also known as a “legacy clause,” is a provision that allows individuals who do not meet the current qualification requirements to be registered based on their past experience and qualifications.
In the case of the SACPCMP, this clause allowed for the registration of PR Agents who did not meet the stringent educational being Tertiary and competency criteria introduced by the Council in 2014.
The Controversy Surrounding the Grandfather Clause
1. Competency Concerns:
One of the primary concerns surrounding the grandfather clause is the potential for individuals who lacked essential competencies to be registered as PR Agents. This raises questions about the council’s commitment to ensuring that registered professionals could conduct their roles effectively and safely. It also puts the reputation of the construction industry at risk due to people who did not have Tertiary education of a National Diploma or a B Tech but we are allowed to practice.
These people were given full access a James Bond License to Kill, sorry to operate, as Professional Agents and were given no limitations on the size, nature or risks of the projects.
Many of these “Professionals” are still masquerading today, wearing the badge of a “Professional” but it begs to question what was the criteria used to determine their Professional status?
What criteria was used to determine who was the “chosen ones?” Who were allowed to go through based on what process used to select, test etc.? Why were others turned down? Many who applied during the same time had far superior experience and qualifications, but we are not allowed to register as Agents?
2. Inequality in Registration:
Critics argue that the grandfather clause creates an unequal playing field within the PR Agent profession. Those who gained their qualifications and experience before the introduction of stricter requirements might be favored over newer professionals who had to meet more rigorous standards. This perceived injustice undermines the council’s mission of fostering professionalism and fairness and equality amongst all.
3. Impact on Public Safety:
The construction industry is responsible for building infrastructure that directly affects public safety. Allowing individuals with Samtrac, Nebosh IGC, short Programme’s etc. to work as PR Agents may have compromised and is still compromising the safety and quality of construction projects, endangering both workers and the public.
Calls for Reform
In response to the controversy surrounding the grandfather clause, many stakeholders, including industry associations and concerned professionals, have called for its reform or removal. Suggestions for addressing the issue include:
1.Phased-Out Sunset Clause Agents: Implementing a gradual phase-out of the grandfather clause, allowing currently registered PR Agents to cease practicing while requiring new entrants to meet much more stringent competency standards.
2.Continuous Professional Development: Requiring all registered PR Agents, regardless of their registration method, to engage in ongoing professional development to ensure they stay up to date with industry best practices. Which is currently being done.
3. Review of Registration Criteria: Conducting a comprehensive review of the PR Agent registration criteria to ensure they align with current International industry needs and standards.
Look at other Professional bodies from around the world and align with their standards so we can be on the same level playing fields with the first world countries.
The SACPCMP’s inclusion of the grandfather clause in the registration of PR Agents has sparked controversy within the construction industry. While the intent may have been to recognize the contributions of experienced professionals, it has raised concerns about competence, fairness, and public safety.
There have been some positive developments through the years, but rectifying the wrongs of the past Management who were at the helm is vital for the industry.
by Fabian Buckley Idip Nebosh