The National Skills Fund (NSF) participated in the National Tourism Career Expo (NTCE) at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, in October 2024. 

The three-day event, hosted by the Department of Tourism in partnership with key provincial stakeholders, aimed to underscore tourism’s vital role in South Africa’s economy. It fostered engagement between learners, educators, and tourism stakeholders while offering insights into career opportunities and skills development.

NSF showcased its commitment to youth skills development, highlighting various NSF-funded projects in the tourism sector. 

The exhibition also allowed small businesses and industry stakeholders to explore training and development opportunities. High school learners from the five Limpopo districts, particularly those studying consumer and tourism subjects, benefited from the event.

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, in her keynote address, celebrated the transformative potential of tourism for economic growth and youth employment. 

“This expo is unlocking possibilities,” she remarked, urging learners to seize the opportunities available in tourism and hospitality. 

The Premier emphasised aligning skills development with industry needs to support national economic goals.

NSF’s participation reinforced its mission to empower South Africans through targeted skills funding, further establishing its role in advancing the country’s tourism industry.

Written by Lebeko Morema, National Skills Fund intern

Picture caption: NSF Mudanalwo Ravele exhibiting at the National Tourism Career Expo in Polokwane.