The CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC) continues its commitment to make a difference in its surrounding communities through a series of outreach initiatives.
The CSIR ICC has been contributing to capacity pipeline development by annually appointing in-service trainees who are studying towards food and beverage and hospitality management diplomas or other industry-related qualifications, since 2001. The CSIR ICC is hosting six students from the Tshwane South TVET College for the Visiting Students programme. The intakes have completed their studies in tourism. They are currently undergoing eight months of work-integrated learning placement at the CSIR ICC where they have been placed within various departments. The programme exposes the students to a real-life environment that links the value generated from day-to-day work to organisational impact. The learning experience challenges the students to move beyond their established classroom routines into a professional working zone.
βI am learning about the operations of an accommodation establishment, including housekeeping, gardening and maintenance of a building structure. From the reviews received from customers, it is evident that Entabeni Accommodation is an excellent establishment,β shared Lebogang Leso, one of the visiting students.
Furthermore, the CSIR ICC recently donated essential kitchen appliances, outdoor furniture, banqueting serveware and other necessities to the Eersterust Welfare Organisation for the Aged, located in Eersterust, Pretoria. The welfare organisation provides safe accommodation and other welfare care for the aged, disabled and homeless people.
The CSIR ICC will remain a contributor to community development by providing access to resources to communities through a variety of initiatives and urges other hospitality industry establishments to have community involvement programmes to ensure that adequately skilled individuals are available for employment.
Image caption (from L-R): Rose Sibisi, Lebogang Leso, Mogomotsi Pete, Omphile Marumo, Zwivhuya Luvhengo and Prescah Maake
