School learners urged to make the most out of Tourism
About 45 learners from the 22 schools across the North West province attended these years National Tourism Career Expo held in Bloemfontein over the past weekend. The Learners meet with Hundreds of their counterparts from other different provinces where they were exposed to array opportunities available within the Tourism sector and further advised on process to be followed as they pursue their dreams.
Addressing the learners, the North West Tourism MEC Desbo Mohono made a plea to the pupil to make the most out of the information they acquired during the three days of the National Tourism Career Expo. Mohono further informed the learners that Tourism is one of the most important elements that contributes to the economy of the country. She urged them to ensure that they explore opportunities available and start mapping their careers and contribute towards the tourism industry in the North West.
“Tourism industry needs you. You now know that it is critically important in growing the economy and creating jobs. Therefore it is important to make sure that after completing grade 12 you explore available opportunities and start your own business within the tourism sector. Your goal should be to start your own business and ensure that you create jobs. Government is ready to assist each an every one of you in achieving your own goal. I therefore urge you to use this opportunity and build your own future,” said Mohono.
Meanwhile the Deputy Minister of Tourism Elizabeth Thabethe also took the opportunity to encourage learners to work hard in building their careers as the future of this country is in their hands.
“The NTCE 2017 is going to assume its true character of being a melting pot where all tourism education and training stakeholders and industry representatives meet, engage and interact on issues of demand and supply of skills in the sector”.
“It is expected to live up to its slogan that says NTCE is not just a paper grabbing platform, but an interactive exercise. It is not like any other careers expo, as it brings all elements of Tourism Human Resources Development on board, and is the biggest education and training event in tourism”, said Deputy Minister Thabethe.
The NTCE offers various platforms, where both the learners and educators can participate. These include an exhibition of tourism products from the industry, academia as well as funding institutions. Also hosted is the Educator Seminar where educators in the tourism and hospitality sector get equipped with the latest advancements in the sector.
The event is hosted annually, for three year cycle in each province, the NTCE is a programme championed by a partnership between the National Department of Tourism (NDT), Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, Sports, Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) and Free State Department of Economic Small Business Development, Tourism and Environment Affairs (DESTEA).
For enquiries: Dineo Lolokwane (Spokesperson)
Cell : 072 542 8444
Tel: 018 388 2081
E-mail : dlolokwane@nwpg.gov.za
