Duration: 3 Months
Programme Type: Provider-Based Short Course (Non-Credit Bearing)
Certification: Certificate of Proficiency / Completion
Mode of Delivery: On-Campus | Online | Blended

Programme Overview

This programme equips learners with essential secretarial skills and computer literacy required in modern office environments. Learners gain practical knowledge in office administration, professional communication, document preparation, scheduling, customer service, and computer applications.

Suitable for school leavers, job seekers, interns, and individuals aiming for secretarial or administrative roles.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Secretarial Duties

• Role and responsibilities of a secretary
• Professional conduct, ethics, and workplace etiquette
• Time management and organizational skills
• Handling correspondence, appointments, and office workflows

Module 2: Basic Computer Skills & Office Equipment

• Introduction to computers and operating systems
• Keyboard and mouse skills
• File and folder management
• Basic computer maintenance and safety
• Internet and email usage
• Printing, scanning, and photocopying documents

Module 3: Office Communication & Customer Service

• Business communication (formal letters, memos, emails)
• Telephone etiquette and call handling
• Professional customer service techniques
• Handling enquiries, complaints, and visitors

Module 4: Office Software Applications

• Microsoft Word: document creation and formatting
• Microsoft Excel: data entry and simple spreadsheets
• Microsoft PowerPoint: basic presentations
• Microsoft Outlook: email and calendar management
• Remote conferencing applications and tools (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)

Module 5: Records & Office Systems

• Manual and electronic filing systems
• Record-keeping and document control
• Data confidentiality and professional information handling
• Office equipment usage (printers, scanners, photocopiers)

Module 6: Practical Secretarial & Work Readiness

• Daily secretarial tasks and administrative support
• Scheduling meetings and managing diaries
• Workplace professionalism and etiquette
• Practical assessment or mini project

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:

• Perform secretarial and administrative duties efficiently
• Use computers and office software confidently
• Handle correspondence, telephone calls, and virtual meetings professionally
• Operate office equipment (printers, scanners, photocopiers)
• Demonstrate workplace readiness and professional etiquette

Entrance Requirements

• Grade 10, Matric, or equivalent
• No prior secretarial or computer experience required

Career & Skills Pathways

This programme prepares learners for roles such as:

• Secretary / Personal Assistant
• Administrative Assistant
• Office Administrator
• Receptionist
• Data Capturer

Compliance & Accreditation Note

This is a provider-based, non-credit-bearing short course developed and assessed by Excel Gene Academy. It is not registered on the NQF and does not carry SAQA accreditation, but supports employability, office skills, and workplace readiness.

Excel Gene Academy – Learn. Transform. Excel.

Developing professional secretarial and office administration skills for the modern workplace.