The South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) has highlighted that the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) is making changes to its registration model to streamline the process for qualified engineers to register as professional engineers with the council. After piloting the Application Cycle Calendar from January 2024 to July 2025, ECSA has identified some limitations in the cyclical approach. Consequently, it is moving to a continuous registration model that is faster, more flexible, and it aligns with the improved digital systems the SAIEE has been building. The review of the piloted cyclical approach revealed that the high number of applications exceeded processing capacity, the limited availability of trained Virtual Panel Members (VPMs) caused bottlenecks, manual processes slowed down outcomes, and the current cycle system was not sustainable.
The SAIEE Academy offers a continuing programme of training courses that carry CPD points.
Changes going forward
ECSA is phasing out registration cycles and opening continuous registration from 15 August 2025. Key updates are noted below.
Final cycle processing:
- Cycle 2 of 2024 – Finalised by 30 June 2025
- Cycle 1 of 2025 – Finalised by 31 July 2025, noting that a small number may move into August for closure towards an outcome.
Continuous registration:
- Opens – 15 August 2025 via the ECSA Self-Service Portal
- Closes annually – 15 December to 15 January, when the team is on leave.
Note: For those who have received an abeyance outcome, they should ensure they have submitted the required documents to close out their applications.
The SAIEE Academy runs a comprehensive programme of training courses through which engineers can earn continuing professional development (CPD) points. CPD is a fundamental part of any career in all engineering disciplines. It ensures engineers keep up to date by extending their knowledge and skills regularly. ECSA states that all members of professional engineering institutions in the engineering sector are required to undertake CPD. One of the main functions of the professional engineering bodies is to support the improvement and development of their members. The SAIEE works alongside ECSA to advise on CPD in the electrical engineering profession, providing guidance, resources and training programmes.
For those interested in pursuing any of the CPD training courses offered by the SAIEE Academy, you do not need to be an ECSA member to attend these courses. The full calendar of courses – presented online or in person – is available here.
For other information visit: www.saiee.org.za
