Sozim earns national endorsement from the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) for Occupational Library Assistant program
Sozim earns national endorsement from the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) for Occupational Library Assistant program
Sozim has reached a significant academic milestone, receiving official endorsement from LIASA for its Occupational Certificate in Library Assistant course. The endorsement recognizes that Sozim’s education offerings meet rigorous academic standards required for graduates to pursue a career in library and information services.
Sozim is the first college in Bloemfontein, South Africa to receive the endorsement from LIASA, one of the largest professional associations dedicated to advancing library and information services profession.
“This endorsement affirms the quality of our library assistant program and validates the skills gap approach we have introduced at Sozim” said Dr Mahlaga J Molepo, Academic Manager of Sozim.
To earn the endorsement, Sozim offers Education Training and Development Practice (ETDP) Sector Education Training Authority (SETA) and library and information services programs, accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupation (QCTO), aligned with the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). The endorsement ensures that Sozim aligns with LIASA’s strategic theme on training and development, which is to invigorate the sector through dynamic, vibrant, continuing education, training and development programmes.
Benefits for students and graduates
Students enrolled in the endorsed program will gain access to industry specific resources, professional networks, and mentorship opportunities through LIASA. “Our students will benefit from a nationally recognized pathway into the library and information services profession, giving them a competitive edge as they enter the South African workforce, said Mrs Kasadi Diseko, Director of Sozim. The endorsement also strengthens Sozim’s collaborations with key professional bodies, opening doors for advisory board participation, and curriculum research initiatives student internship placements.
About Sozim
Founded in 2009, Sozim Trading & Consultancy began with a simple but powerful vision: to make quality education accessible to all South Africans. What started as a small training center has grown into a respected institution serving thousands of students across multiple provinces.
Our founders, driven by their passion for education and community development, recognised the critical need for practical, industry-relevant training programmes. They understood that traditional education often failed to equip students with the skills needed in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
About Library and Information Association of South Africa
The Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) is a prominent professional body recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This recognition underscores LIASA’s commitment to maintaining high standards in the library and information services (LIS) sector. As a professional body, LIASA plays a crucial role in advocating for the interests of LIS practitioners across South Africa, ensuring that they are well-represented and supported in their professional endeavours. LIASA also supports UNESCO initiatives, aligning with the global mission to promote education, science, and culture. By espousing the principle of “Information for All,” LIASA emphasizes the importance of equitable access to information as a fundamental right.
In addition to its national recognition, LIASA is also an affiliate member of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AFLIA). These affiliations connect LIASA to a broader international network, fostering collaboration and the exchange of knowledge and best practices. Through these connections, LIASA not only enhances the professional development of its members but also contributes to the global advancement of the LIS profession. By supporting UNESCO initiatives, LIASA further demonstrates its commitment to global standards and the universal access to information, reinforcing its role as a key player in the international LIS community.
