THE CHALLENGE
One of the outcomes identified for the establishment of transfrontier conservation areas in southern Africa, is creating economically sustainable livelihoods for people living in transboundary landscapes. Tourism stimulates economic growth and job creation. In South Africa approximately one in 20 people directly rely on the tourism industry for employment. A large base of skilled tourism-industry professionals is necessary, to provide effective management of tourism facilities, and international quality service to patrons.
Our solution
The SA College for Tourism (SACT) is a registered Non Profit Organisation founded in 2001 by Dr Anton Rupert with the mission to provide capacity building and economic empowerment for marginalised, unemployed, rural, and peri-urban youth. SACT has two distinct training divisions – Hospitality and Tracker – catering to individuals aiming for expertise in their chosen field of work. The College is supported by Peace Parks Foundation and collaborates through a cooperation agreement to achieve shared goals in wildlife conservation and education.
SACT’s strategic objectives include youth development, skills development, women empowerment and for these young adults to obtain meaningful employment. The College aims to recruit students between the ages of 18 and 35 years of age who have a matric certificate or equivalent qualification, who are fully literate in English, and have a good numerical understanding.
Primary focus is on the economic empowerment of local communities in or adjacent to the transfrontier conservation areas of southern Africa. If communities experience economic benefits from these landscapes, they are more likely to support conservation initiatives, which in turn will further promote sustainable economic development in these communities.
SA College for Tourism kicks off second semester
