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Career

Paediatrician Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-221206
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications2

Occupation overview

Investigates, diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders in children from birth up to and including adolescence.

What does a Paediatrician do?

A paediatrician investigates, diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders affecting children from birth through adolescence. The work involves assessing young patients, identifying health conditions and planning appropriate treatment across different stages of childhood. Related areas of practice include neonatology and paediatric thoracic medicine.

Specialisations

NeonatologistPaediatric Thoracic Physician

How to become a Paediatrician in South Africa

  1. Learn about paediatric medicine and the health conditions affecting children from birth through adolescence.
  2. Consider the relevant training pathways listed for this career: the Certificate: Pulmonology: College of Paediatricians of South Africa, or the Fellowship: College of Paediatricians.
  3. Compare the focus, structure and career relevance of these qualifications before choosing a pathway.
  4. Confirm current qualification, provider, recognition and assessment details with SAQA, the relevant quality council or an appropriate official institution.
  5. Build experience and professional capability in investigating, diagnosing and treating childhood diseases and disorders.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

The listed qualifications are relevant pathways associated with paediatric practice, but they should not be treated as the only possible entry requirements without confirming current professional rules. Prospective paediatricians should verify the full pathway with the relevant official bodies and consider whether they want to focus on areas such as neonatology or paediatric thoracic medicine.

Useful school subjects

  • Life Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • English

Skills that may help

  • Investigating medical conditions
  • Diagnosing diseases and disorders
  • Planning and providing treatment
  • Working with children and adolescents
  • Applying careful clinical judgement
  • Communicating clearly with young patients and their families

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.