The Africa Travel Indaba NTCE Networking Session in Durban brought together key players in the tourism industry to bridge the knowledge gap and position tourism as a desirable career path and lucrative business prospect. The event aimed to empower unemployed youth and graduates and mitigate the skill shortages in the sector. The day was filled with insightful discussions and emphasized the diverse career opportunities in the tourism industry, while celebrating the industry’s future and highlighting successful training programs.
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Graduation Event celebrated the achievements of individuals who earned qualifications based on prior learning and experience. Esteemed individuals such as Mr. Fish Mahlalela and Chef Fatima Stanley graced the event, which embodied South Africa’s commitment to democratic principles. The RPL program plays a vital role in the country’s skills development strategy and promotes career growth in the tourism sector. With a skilled workforce ready to shape it, the future of the tourism sector in the country looks bright.
The Western Cape Province, a region known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is set to experience a significant increase in passenger numbers with the introduction and expansion of several regional and local airlines offering flights to Cape Town. This promising development is expected to boost the region’s tourism sector and strengthen its economic ties with neighboring countries.
In June each year, Mangaung, Free State Province, South Africa commemorates the 47th anniversary of the 1976 student uprising. This historical moment has inspired a new initiative to empower and uplift the youth of today through tourism. The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Small Business Development and the Free State Department of Economic Development, Small Business, Tourism, and Environment Affairs (DESTEA), has announced a community engagement event to discuss opportunities for upskilling and empowering the youth in the tourism sector.
South Africa’s tourism industry, a major contributor to the country’s economy, has been hit hard by the COVID19 pandemic. However, the government has been making efforts to boost the industry and help it recover. One such measure is the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan, launched in May 2020, which aims to recover the sector and create jobs.
The Africa’s Travel Indaba, held on May 10th, 2023, in Durban, provided an exceptional platform for stakeholders in the tourism industry to collaborate and establish meaningful connections. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Fish Mahlalela, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of networking and addressing skills shortages in the hospitality and tourism services sector.