National Tourism Careers Expo 2023: Driving Employment and Sustainable Development in Tourism

The National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE) 2023 is a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, Culture Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Education Training Authority (CATHSSETA), and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, represented by the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA). The event, which marks its 13th anniversary this year, is aimed at attracting young talent to the thriving tourism sector.

Nurturing Skilled and Passionate Professionals

The media launch of NTCE 2023 emphasizes the importance of nurturing and developing a pool of skilled and passionate professionals who can boost the growth of the tourism sector. The expo seeks to align with the National Tourism Sector Strategy, which aims to create an additional 300,000 tourism job opportunities by 2026. Its theme, “Tourism Investment for People, Planet, and Prosperity,” reflects the commitment to promoting sustainable growth in the industry.

Empowering Young People

Last year, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) hosted the first Global Youth Tourism Summit, which culminated in the Sorrento Call to Action. This visionary initiative aims to empower young people by giving them a platform to share their ideas and contribute to the industry’s growth as a pillar of sustainable and inclusive development.

A Thriving Employment Area

The tourism sector is one of the world’s fastest-growing employment areas, constantly adapting to new trends and technologies. The government has identified it as a key driver within the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, recognizing the industry’s importance in the economic recovery of countries.

Creating Awareness and Opportunities

The NTCE 2023 serves as a platform for creating awareness about available careers and professional opportunities in the tourism industry. The expo allows learners to interact with potential employers while highlighting the skills development challenges and proposed solutions aimed at driving recovery within the sector.

Virtually Limitless Career Opportunities

Career opportunities in tourism are virtually limitless, ranging from food and beverage, cruise ships, transport, adventure tourism, travel trade, events and conferences, tour operators, tourism entrepreneurs, and travel bloggers. The NTCE 2023 invites learners to follow their passion and find their niche in the tourism value chain.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The expo inspires present and prospective tourism learners and unemployed youth to pursue tourism careers and professional opportunities, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the sector for generations to come.

Investing in People, the Planet, and Prosperity

As the countdown to the NTCE 2023 continues, stakeholders in the tourism industry eagerly anticipate the event’s impact on the development of skilled professionals, economic recovery, and sustainable growth. By providing a wealth of opportunities for young talents, the expo demonstrates the commitment of the government and industry players to invest in people, the planet, and prosperity.