A group of 110 graduates from the Free State are ready to delve into tourism and hospitality after completing a one-year basic professional cookery programme.
The graduation ceremony was held in Bloemfontein on 1 December. Each graduate received a national certificate in Professional Cookery, accredited by the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sports Sector Education and Training Authority (Cathsseta).
The programme they followed targets unemployed youth in the province to ensure employability in the hospitality industry.
Collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders offering in-house training has contributed to the initiative’s success.
The graduates expressed their joy after successfully completing the course. They include Lehlohonolo Mosia (27), from Qwaqwa, as well as Claude Jantjies (33) and Moloboheng Mabitle (28), both from Thaba Nchu.
“Cooking must be your passion to be successful! It was a great opportunity to be part of this programme,” said Jantjies.
Mabitle puts into words how challenging, and also how fascinating, cooking can be.
“A recipe has no soul. You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe.”
The graduates aspire to offering excellent service and creating memorable experiences.
