The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC) continues to make a difference in its surrounding communities through a series of outreach initiatives.

Since 2001, the venue 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.

This year, the CSIR ICC is hosting six students from the Tshwane South Technical and Vocational Education and Training College as part of the Visiting Students programme. The students have completed their studies in tourism and are currently undergoing eight months of work-integrated learning placement within various departments of the CSIR ICC.

The programme exposes students to the real-life environment where the value generated from day-to-day work is linked to organisational impact. The learning experience challenges students to move beyond their established classroom routines into a professional working zone.

“I am learning about the operations of an accommodation establishment including housekeeping, gardening and maintenance of a building structure. The reviews received from customers indicate that Entabeni Accommodation is an excellent establishment,” shared Lebogang Leso, one of the visiting students.

The CSIR ICC also recently donated essential kitchen appliances, outdoor furniture, banqueting serveware and other necessities to the Eersterust Welfare Organisation for the Aged in Pretoria. The organisation provides safe accommodation and care for elderly, disabled and homeless people.

A spokesperson said: “The CSIR ICC will remain a contributor to community development by providing access to resources for communities through a variety of initiatives and urges other hospitality industry establishments to have community involvement programmes to ensure adequately skilled individuals are available for employment.”