. The CEO informed the Committee that he was resigning and the Deputy Executive Officer would take over. The essential role of SAQA was the management and implementation of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). In doing so, SAQA developed policies and criteria to recognise professional bodies and drafted level descriptors. The Quality Council on Trades and Occupation (QCTO) was assisted by SAQA through standard settings, quality assurance and the assignment of the Deputy Executive Officer and six staff members. The Career Advice Service was established in partnership with 9 SABC Radio stations to assist learners in rural areas. . SAQA hosted the National Recognition of Prior Learning (NRPL) Conference in February 2011. A Ministerial Task Team on RPL was launched which would report to the Minister on its work. . Registration of Qualifications: SAQA registered 144 new qualifications and 795 new unit standards, approved 47 applications by Education and Training Qualifications Authorities (ETQAs) resulting in 95 qualifications being allocated to them for quality assurance. In terms of foreign qualifications, 24 665 qualifications were received of which 305 were from Zimbabwe. . Governance: On 1 January 2011 the 5TH SAQA board was appointed and met for the first time on 16 February 2011. . Financial Performance: SAQA achieved its 14th unqualified audit report from the Auditor-General (AG) with no emphasis raised on any matters. Funds were managed responsibly, efficiently and effectively. SAQA spent 83% of its revised budget for 2010/11. Under-spending amounted to R14.5 million (16.26%) for the year under review. . Staffing: Staffing complement was increased by 24% (27 positions). Staff turnover year to date was 6%. SAQA appointed 14 persons for the current financial year. Currently 85% of positions were filled. The filling of 10% would be finalised by December 2011, and the remainder by February 2012. SAQA also appointed five Learners in Business Administration (NQF Level 4) and 2 interns. Appointment of further three was underway. . Way forward: SAQA aims to provide leadership in the transition from the SAQA Act to the NQF Act, and future operations. SAQA also aims to enhance research and development capacity and credibility, to direct and steer policy. Work towards a system of recognised, quality, articulated learning and career paths which removes systematic barriers to access and progression.