I'm a 2nd year IT: Software Developer student. Originally my goal was to get a Bachelors of Technology (B-Tech) at the University, but "thanks" to some Government nitwits, the Degree it getting scrapped from the curriculum and is getting replaced with an Advanced Diploma which is a two year thing instead of a One Year B-Tech Qualification. I have a couple of questions I'd like to ask:

When does the new curriculum officially take over?
According to NMMU's website, they say the final year for new admission is in 2018. What exactly does that even mean?
If a B-Tech is well known worldwide, should an Advanced Diploma be treated the same?

Your answers will be appreciated.