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Cape Town - Choosing a qualification in the hospitality industry can be the start of a career.
Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account for South Africa, which was published in December 2016, noted that in 2015, 1 in 22 employed individuals were working in the tourism industry.
The total number of people employed in the tourism industry in 2015 came in at 711 746 (up from 679 560 in 2014), with 20% of jobs concentrated in the food and beverage segment and 19% in accommodation.
The Academic College of South Africa, managed by Premier Hotels & Resorts, for instance, offers training in the hospitality industry, as well as jobs for students who have excelled during their studies and practical.
The college also provides career guidance for students upon application. Furthermore, the college is an accredited institution of the Culture Art Tourism Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (Cathsseta).
“Looking at the different establishments we target, from restaurants and hotels, game lodges, holiday resorts, airlines, cruise liners, information centres, heritage and cultural attractions, to conference venues and tourism services, graduates have a treasure trove of hospitality career paths to choose from," says chief operating officer of Premier Hotels & Resorts, Sigal Geva.
"Foodies might prefer a certificate or diploma in cookery or in food and beverage services. Others - who are passionate about daily interpersonal interaction - will benefit from a certificate in hospitality reception or a diploma in hospitality service management.
Together with classroom theory, practical work experience is provided at Premier properties.
“The true beauty of a hospitality qualification is that it is not just a stepping stone for a job – it also gives you the opportunity to enter an exciting, vibrant environment that is continually evolving,” adds Geva.
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