The last series of graduations of the Food and Beverages Programme was held by the Department of Tourism in East London last week.
A total of 55 graduates have completed the one-year programme targeting unemployed youth in the Eastern Cape and which aims to upskill and ensure employability within the hospitality industry.
The programme comprised 30% theory and 70% workplace experiential training, with graduates receiving a National Certificate in Food and Beverages accredited by the Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (Cathsseta).
Statistics South Africa recently reported a 31.2% increase in the food and beverages industry in Quarter 3, 2022 compared with the same period in 2021.
Graduates were excited to share their experiences with the Food and Beverages Programme, with Njongo Ratshalala, from Gqeberha saying: “This programme has been the best time of my life. It has opened great opportunities for me and I got the experience that I never thought I would get.”
Masande Jara from Mthatha added: “This programme was perfect and I am looking forward to working in the tourism industry. Thank you to the Department of Tourism for this opportunity.”
The food and beverage sub-sector has a strong service ethos that serves to enhance, define and create memorable visitor experiences.
