ICASA RULES ABOUT ZU LICENSES FOR PEOPLE OVER 25 - With
the publication of the new radio regulations earlier this year, the
much talked about age restriction for ZU license holders was
implemented. Persons under 20 years old can write the class B
examination and if successful can hold a ZU or class B license until 25
years old after which, if they would like to continue with Amateur
Radio, have to sit the class A examination to qualify for a class A
(ZS/ZR license).
During
the discussion stage of this new regulation the SARL was requested to
approach ICASA to review their decision, which the SARL did at two
occasions when ICASA invited comments on their proposal. ICASA strongly
believes that the class B license prime purpose was to create
opportunities for young people toenter Amateur Radio and based on that
premises implemented the new regulation.
The SARL requested ICASA to allow a reasonable period for ZU licences over 25 to upgrade. ICASA agreed to this. The
Authority has announced that all persons over 25 years old can no
longer renew their ZU licence from 1 April 2017. In a letter to the
affected licensees, currently being mailed, ICASA recommends that the
affected persons enrol for a class A license course and write the next
RAE in May or October 2016