Earlier this month, the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane was a hive of activity as key players in tourism and hospitality came together for the National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE). Held from 8 to 10 October 2024, the event celebrated its legacy under the theme “Tourism and Peace: 30 Years of connecting people to places and cultures,”. Among the participants were six dedicated learners and educators from the Eastern Cape, proudly showcasing the province’s commitment to nurturing future talent in tourism.
Aimed at Grade 9 to 12 learners, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), university students, and unemployed graduates, the NTCE is more than just an event—it is a transformative experience. Over the three days, attendees engaged in interactive workshops, presentations, and networking sessions designed to inspire and inform them about the diverse careers available in the tourism sector. The expo highlighted the endless possibilities within this vibrant industry, from hospitality management and travel consultancy to eco-tourism and cultural heritage preservation.
These students, accompanied by their educators, had the unique opportunity to interact with industry leaders, gaining invaluable insights and mentorship that could shape their future careers.
Since its inception in 2008, the NTCE has become a cornerstone event on South Africa’s tourism calendar, drawing thousands of learners and educators nationwide each year. It showcases the wealth of opportunities within the sector and underscores the importance of tourism as a driver of peace, understanding, and sustainable development.
