The National Tourism Career Expo (NTCE) 2024, held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, promises to unlock the potential of SA’s youth in the tourism industry.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Maggie Sotyu, emphasised the sector’s commitment to developing skills, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating jobs.
The tourism sector is one of the fastest-growing industries globally, and South Africa is no exception.
“To capitalise on this growth, the government is working to ensure that all individuals, particularly youth, women, and persons with disabilities, benefit from the sector's successes,” she said.
“The department has made significant strides in upskilling youth through various initiatives, including skills development programmes specifically for youth.”
She added that over 1900 youth benefited from these programmes and that 276 SMMEs in tourism were trained on occupational health and safety norms.
Fifty chefs obtained professional qualifications in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, while 450 unemployed youth would receive skills development training. 2300 Tourism Monitors would be trained through EPWP funding.
She added that the NTCE 2024 provided a platform for learners, students, and unemployed tourism graduates to explore diverse opportunities in the industry including cultural and heritage tourism, nature-based tourism, travel and tourism operations, hospitality and service management
“To exponentially increase the growth of the tourism sector, the country needs young people to grow their skills base, become entrepreneurs and innovators, adopt and set new trends, and commit to the growth of the sector and its potential to create jobs and grow the economy.”
Opening the NTCE, Limpopo premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba highlighted the significance of the tourism sector in the province’s economy.
“Limpopo is a land where nature and culture intertwine… Our natural and cultural heritage makes us the most favoured domestic tourism destination in South Africa,” she said.
“The province boasts breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural tapestry, and unparalleled biodiversity, with iconic attractions like the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Kruger National Park, and Mapungubwe National Park.”
She added that the NTCE was more than just an event, but also a beacon of opportunity, fostering innovation and growth in the tourism sector.
Ramathuba urged the youth to seize the moment, explore diverse career paths, and connect with industry leaders.
“The future of our province and our country depends on your energy, creativity, and innovation,” she said.
The expo also provided a platform for young people to discover the endless possibilities in the tourism sector, including tour guiding and hospitality management.
She said the NTCE was expected to draw thousands of visitors, injecting revenue into the local economy and creating jobs in various sectors.
Ramathuba concluded by emphasising the Limpopo Provincial Government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the growth of the tourism sector.
Through initiatives like “Tourism Thursdays”, they aim to promote service excellence, support industry stakeholders, and invest in infrastructure.
The Star
mashudu.sadike@inl.co.za