Quick eye check… are these two certificates the same?
Do they even look the same?
Of course not. Because they are not the same.
There is a widespread misconception about the TTT Certificate and the TTT Exemption Certificate.
The main difference between HRD Corp TTT Certified Trainers and TTT Exempted Trainers is that TTT Certified Trainers have completed the 5-day HRD Corp Train-The-Trainer (TTT) Certification Course and pass the final assessment, while TTT Exempted Trainers have met certain criteria that allow them to be excused from attending the 5 days TTT course.
The main advantage of being a TTT Certified Trainer is that you will have a recognised qualification (via demonstrating your skills and knowledge as a trainer through the knowledge and performance assessment on Day 5).
This can be an advantage when you are looking for a job as a trainer, or when you are bidding for training gigs (not necessarily just in the space of HRD Corp).
You will also get to network with fellow trainers from different fields (if you attend the public programme) and may get extra guidance from the TTT training provider for the accreditation process and beyond.
The main advantage of being a TTT Exempted Trainer is that you will not have to spend the time and money on attending the TTT certification course.
Trainers can be exempted from attending the TTT course if they meet any of the following criteria:
1️. They have a teacher training certificate (Sijil Guru, Sijil Perguruan Khas, Sijil Perguruan Asas, Sijil Perguruan Ilmu Khas) from a recognised government or international teacher training college.
2️. They have a Diploma, Degree, or Master’s degree in Education from a recognised government or private institution.
3️. They have a Trainer Certificate (NIOSH-TTT1, NIOSH-TTT2, NSC-TTT); or Vocational Trainer Certificate (VTO VTM, VTE) endorsed by the Department of Skills Development.
Note: Academic certificates / childhood education / teaching permits / assistant professor does not comply with the above.
Both TTT Exempted Trainers and TTT Certified Trainers must still go through an assessment process to obtain HRD Corp Accredited status.
HRD Corp Accredited Trainers will be allowed to conduct training under HRD Corp training schemes like HRD Claimable Courses and strategic initiatives like Program Latihan Madani.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to go for TTT or apply for TTT exemption is a personal one.
Consider your goals and circumstances when making the decision. Don’t just look at the price or what feels convenient because intangible benefits are often not noticeable to the naked eyes.
All the best!