DM Mahlalela handing out a certificate to one of the graduates
By Kopano Dibakwane
The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, in conjunction with Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency(MTPA), led a ceremony in Mbombela on Wednesday 22 May 2024, to congratulate 81 learners who completed the National Certificate in Food and Beverages NQF level 4.
The 12 months programme, which is said to be accredited by CATHSSETA(Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority)with 135 credits, comprised of 30% theory and 70% practical experience.
In his keynote address, Mahlalela said the Department of Tourism has identified a need to address the shortage of skills in the tourism sector by training and building capacity of unemployed youth and graduates, through the National Tourism Sector Strategy.
“ We all gathered here to witness one of the interventions by our government, through the Tourism Sector Human Resource Development Strategy, which has successfully implemented the Food and Beverage Training Programme in Mpumalanga Province. We therefore make a call to all prospective employers to join hands with our government in ensuring suitable placements of these graduates to grow our hospitality sector,” said Mahlalela.
He said the Department of Tourism and its stakeholders have collaborated to develop Tourism Sector Recovery Plan, which is anchored on three interlinked pillars and strategic themes namely; protecting and rejuvenating supply, reigniting demand and strengthening enabling capability for long term sustainability.
“ Our economy needs relevant skills to be stimulated. I salute all our stakeholders particularly MMC Business Solutions and host employers for their support in ensuring and guaranteeing the success of this programme which today sees the official handing over of 81 graduates from all over Mpumalanga Province.
“ Let me take this opportunity to also congratulate all those among us whose hard work, dedication and determination will be awarded today,” said Mahlalela.
He thanked the Deputy Director General(DDG)in the Department of Tourism, Mmadikoti Setwaba, for leading a team that has ensured the success of the programme.
The ceremony was attended by, amongst others, MTPA Executive Manager, Ntwanano Mtungwa, MMC Business Solutions Executive Director, Moloko Ramohlale, and host employers from various establishments.
