The International Hotel School Gqeberha campus offers programmes that combine hands-on training with real-world workplace experience from day one.
This gives students the practical hospitality skills employers want.
With their fast-tracked job-readiness and work-integrated learning placement, graduates have the skills to start their careers in hotels, restaurants and event venues with confidence.
Opportunities abound
The hospitality industry presents significant employment opportunities for South African school leavers.
Both domestic and international markets show strong growth.
In 2023, domestic travel grew by 22%, contributing over R121 billion to South Africa’s economy.
That momentum carried into 2024, with 8.5 million trips in just three months.
Fast forward to 2025, and tourism is powering 1.9 million jobs – 11.3% of all employment, larger than agriculture and mining sectors combined.
International opportunities are equally promising.
With international arrivals up 5.7%, the demand for skilled professionals is rising.
This is most apparent in the global cruise industry.
More than 40 new ships are scheduled for launch by 2027, and overall capacity is expected to grow by 50% over the next decade.
This growth, plus hotel and resort development worldwide, is creating thousands of new roles in food and beverage, guest relations and entertainment.
Skills that transfer
Hospitality offers clear advancement pathways.
Many professionals transition from entry-level roles to management positions within a short period.
Just as importantly, hospitality develops transferable skills such as customer service, team leadership, problem-solving and cross-cultural communication.
These skills are valued in corporate settings and various service industries.
Practical training at International Hotel School Gqeberha
The International Hotel School (IHS) has established itself as a leading private hospitality educator in Africa.
IHS champions practical training that prepares graduates for immediate employment.
By providing hands-on learning, students gain real-world experience throughout their studies, not just theory.
With a range of qualifications, the Gqeberha campus offers three new programmes specifically targeting school leavers:
- Further Education and Training Certificate: Hospitality reception focuses on front office operations, customer service protocols and reception management. Graduates are prepared for positions in hotels, resorts and other accommodation facilities where guest interaction is central.
- National Certificate: Food and beverage services covers restaurant operations, beverage management and dining service standards. It prepares students for roles in restaurants, hotels, cruise ships and other food service environments.
- National Certificate in Professional Cookery focuses on the preparation, cooking and finishing of a wide range of dishes. It also covers food safety, healthy eating, special diets and menu planning. Graduates are prepared for roles in restaurants, lodges and hotels where culinary skills and kitchen management are central.
Both programmes are designed in consultation with industry partners to ensure curriculum relevance and graduate employability.
IHS’s practical approach helps to equip students with the confidence and problem-solving skills that employers actively seek.
A rewarding career path
Hospitality provides practical skills development, international career mobility and strong employment prospects.
Entry-level positions typically offer competitive starting salaries with clear progression opportunities.
The sector’s continued expansion indicates sustained demand for qualified professionals.
Parents and students can attend IHS Gqeberha’s Open Days to learn more about programme requirements, career prospects and admission procedures.
Visit the International Hotel School Open Day and book your spot today.
Apply now for the September 2025 intake.
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