The most senior Skills Development Manager/Officer/Facilitator who has overall strategic responsibility for the implementation of skills development in an institution serves on the SDF.

The objectives of the Skills Forum are the sharing of information and knowledge resources on skills development and implementation strategies in context of the Skills Development Legislation and to promote and ensure that best practice in skills development in South African HE contribute to the long-term sustainability of the higher education sector.

The Skills Forum is a voluntary forum that functions within the governance structure of HESA. The Skills Forum is not a decision making body in relation to legislative matters, or matters relating to its own business. It will report to the HR Directors Forum in terms of its activities. The Forum meets twice a year, and have a close working relationship with the ETDP SETA.