On June 15, 2023, the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will lead the graduation ceremony in Hermanus in honor of 50 young graduates of the Food Quality Assurers Program. This achievement is a significant milestone for each graduate and contributes to the development of the tourism and hospitality sector in the Western Cape.
Providing Technical Skills in Food Preservation
The Food Safety Quality Assurers Training Program aims to equip learners with technical skills in food preservation within the hospitality and tourism sectors. This program is recognized by various food-related industries in South Africa, catering to small restaurants and large-scale hotels. It also covers norms and standards for safe tourism operations, including COVID-19 protocols, targeting retrenched and unemployed youth.
A Collaborative Effort
The Department of Tourism collaborates with The Tourism Business Institute in Southern Africa (TTBISA) to provide skills training to young learners in the Western Cape Province. The program’s curriculum is structured such that 30% is theory-based, and 70% comprises practical training, with accreditation from FoodBev Setas. Throughout the training, beneficiaries learn various skills pertaining to food safety quality assurance.
Prioritizing Youth Development
The Department of Tourism has developed several youth skills development programs in line with the National Tourism Strategy. These initiatives have allowed young people from across South Africa to receive accredited skills training and secure work opportunities in tourism establishments. In the 2022/2023 financial year, over 2,500 learners enrolled in various skills development programs, including Food and Beverage Training, Chef/Professional Cookery, Food Safety Quality Assurers, Wine Service Training, and Hospitality Youth Training (Fast Food Services). The Department has allocated over R69 million for skills development training to benefit young people across the country.
Celebrating the Graduation of the Food Quality Assurers Program
The graduation ceremony will take place at the Benguela Cove Wine Estate in Hermanus, providing a picturesque backdrop for the celebration of the graduates’ achievements. As an essential component of South Africa’s economy, the tourism and hospitality sector continues to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its consumers. The investment in training and development for young professionals ensures that the industry remains competitive, with a constant influx of skilled and passionate individuals.
Empowering Young People through Education and Practical Experience
The Food Quality Assurers Program graduation is a testament to the Department of Tourism and the TTBISA’s commitment to empowering young people through education and practical experience. As the graduates embark on new adventures, they carry with them the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute significantly to South Africa’s flourishing tourism and hospitality sectors.
Contributing to the Growth and Development of the Industry
The success of these graduates is a testament to the ongoing efforts to develop and strengthen the skills of South Africa’s youth. As the industry continues to evolve, the new generation of trained professionals will undoubtedly leave their mark and contribute to the rich tapestry of South Africa’s tourism and hospitality landscape.
