Launching its ‘Do It Day’, the tourism industry joined forces at the National Tourism Careers Expo in Durban to assist learners with information about the vibrant industry last week.
Wearing name tags worded ‘I am a mentor – ask me’ operators in all spheres of the tourism industry voluntarily spent time at the expo, sharing information on the realities of the industry, opportunities and challenges to succeed and the merits of getting involved. Volunteers from hotel groups, hotel schools, travel agents, provincial tourism authorities and national and provincial wildlife parks joined the initiative.
Do it Day is an online social marketplace for people who want to make a difference to the lives of fellow South Africans. It offers opportunities to get involved in virtually any cause – from caring for the aged, caring for animals to education and training.
The Deputy Director General of Tourism, Sindiswa Nhlumayo, said of the more than 3 600 visitors to the expo on the first day, more than 92% indicated that they gained invaluable information on the tourism industry, assisting greatly in deciding on a future career.
“This is exactly what the expo sets out to do. If we wish to capitalise on the advantages of tourism to the South African economy, it is essential that a well-trained, efficient, motivated and dedicated workforce be deployed in the industry, sooner rather than later. With the 2010 FIFA World Cup around the corner, South Africa will be hosting the greatest show on earth in 261 days; we have one chance to enthuse the world to return after the tournament. “
Themed “Work in tourism. Celebrate our diversity” and part of the Tourism Month programme, the expo is a platform for secondary school learners, students at tertiary institutions, unemployed graduates, parents, education providers and employer organisations to experience all aspects of the tourism industry.
The project partners are the Department of Tourism, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal and the Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Education and Training Authority.
