Dear Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour,

Misleading job adverts from SA Parliament
Many parliamentarians in South Africa lack a clear understanding of the functions and responsibilities of translators and interpreters, particularly when evaluating potential job candidates. It is imperative that individuals in senior positions conduct comprehensive research prior to advertising employment opportunities, particularly within the domain of Modern Languages and Linguistics. If Parliament is genuinely committed to enhancing employment prospects, it is essential to recognize the distinction between a translator and an interpreter. For instance, when seeking the services of a General Practitioner, it is important to understand that this provider is not expected to perform specialized procedures, such as heart transplants, nor to possess expertise in distinct fields, such as gynecology, simultaneously. Translation and interpreting are two distinct specializations. Therefore, if an organization seeks to hire an interpreter, it should not anticipate applicants who are primarily translators, and conversely, if the position is for a translator, it should not expect interpreters to apply. Possessing both qualifications may not confer a distinct advantage in this field. In fact, it may inadvertently limit one's opportunities for employment as a translator or interpreter. Professionals in this field typically identify as either translators or interpreters, rather than fulfilling both roles. It is crucial to approach this matter with humility and to refrain from misleading job seekers in South Africa.