ASSAf is a recognised voluntary association of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). As part of this role, ASSAf may register selected activities for SACNASP Continuing Professional Development (CPD) recognition. ASSAf activities that may qualify for CPD recognition include attendance at ASSAf events such as webinars, meetings, presentations, panel discussions and workshops, as well as selected professional contributions such as presenting as part of an ASSAf event, publications, peer review and ASSAf membership where applicable.
This practice aligns most directly with ASSAf’s strategic outcomes on Science Engagement (Outcome 2) and Scholarship Support and Transformation (Outcome 5), by positioning ASSAf events as formally recognised platforms for professional learning, scientific engagement and capacity development. It also supports Mobilising Knowledge (Outcome 3) by encouraging uptake of ASSAf knowledge-sharing activities, and, where relevant, Facilitating Partnerships (Outcome 4) through collaboration with professional bodies and sector stakeholders.
The issuing of CPD certificates is therefore not merely administrative; it positions ASSAf’s events and activities as formally recognised opportunities for professional development within the national science system. In doing so, it enhances the value, credibility and professional relevance of ASSAf’s offerings, supports the ongoing compliance requirements of registered scientists and provides ASSAf with tangible evidence of its contribution to capacity development, skills enhancement and professional engagement in the scientific community.
How ASSAf allocates CPD points
For SACNASP-aligned developmental activities, CPD credits are calculated according to the SACNASP framework. As a general guide, 1 hour of participation is equal to 0.1 CPD credit, a half-day activity equals 0.5 credit and a full-day activity equals 1 credit. For this reason, a 1 hour 30 minute session typically carries approximately 0.15 CPD credit and may be reflected as 0.2 credit on an ASSAf certificate.
CPD certificates are issued only for verified participation. Participants may be required to provide their full name, professional body and membership number where relevant. Attendance records and related information are handled in line with applicable administrative and privacy requirements.
Where attendees belong to professional bodies other than SACNASP, ASSAf may still issue a certificate of participation. The participant is then responsible for submitting the certificate to their own professional body for consideration in terms of that body’s rules and requirements.
Recognition for presenters, authors, reviewers and other contributors may differ from attendance-based credits, depending on the relevant SACNASP category and supporting evidence. ASSAf therefore distinguishes between attendance at an event and broader professional contributions associated with an event or publication.
Frequently asked questions
How are CPD credits for ASSAf events calculated?
ASSAf follows the SACNASP credit allocation framework for validated developmental activities. In general, 1 hour of participation equals 0.1 CPD credit, 5 hours equals 0.5 credit, and 10 hours equals 1 credit. This means that a 1 hour 30 minute session is approximately 0.15 credit and may be reflected as 0.2 credit.
Why does this differ from the expectation of 1 point per hour?
Different professional bodies use different CPD systems. ASSAf applies the SACNASP framework for SACNASP-related activities, which is based on 1 credit per 10 hours for this category of activity.
Do speakers receive the same CPD credits as attendees?
Not necessarily. Attendance and presenting are not always treated in the same way. Presenting, lecturing, publications, peer review and other professional contributions may qualify under different SACNASP categories and may require additional supporting information.
Can ASSAf issue certificates for people registered with other professional bodies?
Yes. ASSAf may issue a certificate of participation, but the participant must submit it to their own professional body, which will decide how or whether it is recognised.
Are certificates issued automatically?
Certificates are issued on the basis of verified participation and in accordance with ASSAf’s CPD process.
Supporting documentation
Overview: CPD – https://www.sacnasp.org.za/overview-cpd
SACNASP CPD Policy – https://www.sacnasp.org.za/uploads/files/CPD-policy-SACNASP.pdf
FAQ / CPD overview explanation – https://www.sacnasp.org.za/faqs/what-is-the-continuous-professional-development-cpd-programme
Training Provider Validation – https://www.sacnasp.org.za/uploads/files/TP-Validation.pdf