At the SA College for Tourism in Graaff-Reinet, there is energy and pride in the air – the much-awaited big day has arrived. Students have gathered at their graduation ceremony, ready for their achievements to be celebrated by instructors and guests, and to go out into the world to put their new skills into practice.
The passion for education and professionalism is evident, thanks to the dedicated guidance of instructors, and the enthusiasm of students as they embrace their new opportunities.
“We really form a very close bond with these students,” says Morné Knoetze, Food and Beverage Instructor. “I would just like to thank them for everything and for all the work that they’ve put in, they’ve made us extremely proud.”
Serving the Self-Sustainability Needs of Southern Africa
The College is a non-profit organisation that operates under the auspices of Peace Parks Foundation.
It provides professional training to unemployed men and women from impoverished rural backgrounds, to equip them to take up skilled positions in the nature-based tourism industry. In addition to hospitality training, the college offers tracker training through its Tracker Academy, as well as eco-herding skills through the Herding Academy. Graduates are able to return to their communities as entrepreneurs with small tourism businesses, or to work as part of the local eco-tourism industry within or around conservation areas.
Over six months, students have followed one of two distinct learning paths. The college’s Hospitality Academy has a strong focus on empowering young women, and embraces wellness and housekeeping, culinary arts and food and beverage. The Tracker Academy operates on remote training sites in the field, equipping students with traditional skills in wildlife tracking.
A Bright Future
“We’re gathered here because of you. We’ve come to congratulate you and to wish you the very best for the future,” says Gaynor Rupert, Chairperson of the SACT Board, addressing the students. “You’ve already achieved a lot, and you’ve made all of us proud. Please go and make something of your careers.”
Marriette Ferreira, Executive Director of SACT, adds “It’s a constant reminder of the change that these two programmes are striving to achieve for humans, for wildlife and for conservation in southern Africa.”
Let’s join hands to endorse the work of the college; partnerships and support will not only pave the way for individual success but also contribute to the sustainable development of the communities these students call home. We wish graduates the very best for what lies ahead and the positive impact they’re destined to create.
Visit SACT Home – SA College for Tourism (sactgr.co.za) to learn more.
This incredible work is only possible because our dedicated donors, and we would like to thank the players of the Swedish Postcode Lottery for their generous support.
