Swift Skills Academy – POPIA Policy
 
1. Introduction
 
Swift Skills Academy is committed to protecting the personal information of learners, employees, and stakeholders in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). This policy outlines how we collect, process, store, and safeguard personal data.
 
2. Scope
 
This policy applies to:
 

• All learners enrolled in training programmes.

• All employees, contractors, and management.

• All visitors and partners engaging with Swift Skills Academy.
   

3. Definitions
 

• Personal Information: Any information that identifies an individual (e.g., name, ID number, contact details).

• Data Subject: The individual whose personal information is being processed.

• Processing: Any operation involving personal information, including collection, storage, use, and sharing.

• Information Officer: The person appointed to oversee POPIA compliance.
   

4. Collection of Information
 
We collect personal information for the following purposes:
 

• Course enrollment and certification.

• Compliance reporting (SARS, UIF, COIDA, accreditation bodies).

• Communication regarding training, updates, and opportunities.

• Job placement and industry partnerships.
   

5. Use of Information
 
Personal information will only be used for legitimate business purposes, including:
 

• Delivering accredited training programmes.

• Issuing certificates and compliance records.

• Meeting legal and regulatory obligations.

• Improving services and learner experience.
   

6. Storage & Security
 

• Data is stored securely on protected servers.

• Access is restricted to authorized personnel only.

• Records are retained only as long as necessary for compliance and training purposes.

• Security measures include encryption, firewalls, and regular audits.
   

7. Sharing of Information
 
We may share personal information with:
 

• Accreditation bodies for certification validation.

• Government agencies (SARS, UIF, COIDA) for compliance.

• Employers/partners for learner placement (with consent).

• Service providers under strict confidentiality agreements.
   

We do not sell or trade personal information.
 
8. Data Subject Rights
 
Under POPIA, individuals have the right to:
 

• Access the personal information we hold about them.

• Request corrections or updates.

• Withdraw consent for certain uses.

• Request deletion of data where legally permissible.
   

9. Information Officer
 
Swift Skills Academy has appointed an Information Officer responsible for:
 

• Ensuring compliance with POPIA.

• Handling data access requests.

• Managing data breaches and reporting incidents.
   

10. Data Breach Management
 
In the event of a data breach:
 

• The Information Officer will investigate immediately.

• Affected individuals will be notified.

• Corrective measures will be implemented to prevent recurrence.
   

11. Review & Updates
 
This policy will be reviewed annually or when legislation changes. Updates will be communicated via the academy’s website and official channels.