ICT Communications Assistant Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Provides technical assistance to users, including diagnosing and resolving issues and problems with software, hardware, computer peripheral equipment, networks, databases, systems and the internet.
What does a ICT Communications Assistant do?
An ICT Communications Assistant helps users keep their digital tools and services working. The role involves investigating faults, explaining solutions clearly and assisting with software, hardware, peripheral equipment, networks, databases, systems and internet-related problems. Depending on the workplace, the work may also focus on help-desk support, computer programming, database assistance, systems analysis or data-processing programmes.
Specialisations
How to become a ICT Communications Assistant in South Africa
- Build practical understanding of computers, software, hardware, networks, databases and internet systems.
- Develop the ability to diagnose technical problems and explain solutions to users in clear, patient language.
- Consider the Higher Certificate in Information Technology in Information Systems (SAQA ID 83746, NQF Level 5, 120 credits) as a relevant study pathway.
- Consider the National Certificate: Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Software Testing (SAQA ID 83026, NQF Level 5, 138 credits) as another relevant pathway.
- Before enrolling, confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Relevant information technology education can provide a useful foundation for this career, but the best preparation also includes practical problem-solving and the ability to support users across different technical systems. Check current study and assessment arrangements with SAQA or an accredited provider.
Useful school subjects
- Computer Applications Technology
- Information Technology
- Mathematics
- English
Skills that may help
- Diagnosing software, hardware and network problems
- Troubleshooting computer peripheral equipment
- Understanding databases, systems and internet technologies
- Analytical and problem-solving ability
- Clear communication with users
- Patient and service-oriented technical support