The Department of Tourism held a graduation ceremony to acknowledge youth who successfully completed the Food Safety Quality Assurers training programme.
The Department’s one-year programme entails 30% theory and 70% workplace experiential training. Graduates receive a National Certificate in Food Safety Quality Assurers, NQF level 4 (116 credits) accredited by FoodBev SETA and CATHSSETA, helping to kick-start their career in the sector.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, welcomed the cohort of 108 graduates that will soon join the talent pool of this scarce skill in the tourism value chain.
“As government, our approach to the skills revolution is to assist the youth to upskill and future-proof themselves in the light of the fast-changing work environment. Through our training programmes, we are able to contribute to mitigating the impact of the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality,” said Mahlalela.
Graduates were excited to share their experiences about the Food Safety Training Programme, including Simphiwe Mankayi from Bonnane in Vanderbijlpark, who said: “It is not only about the certificate that will open doors for me, but also the experience and knowledge I acquired. The programme helped me to develop my skills further, and now I know better when it comes to food services and hospitality industry as a whole. It was not easy at first, but through the support from the Department of Tourism staff members and KTMS – which implemented the programme – I managed to complete the year.”
Mahlalela pointed out that an empowered and adequately skilled workforce is critical for the success of the tourism sector, economy and global competitiveness.
“Through these programmes, we are introducing young people to accredited educational programmes that not only contribute to improved service levels, but will also assure an enhanced visitor experience and the sector’s sustainability,” he said.
