Bridging the workplace training gap

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While young participants have completed five months of training, they still have several more months to gain additional knowledge about the hospitality industry.

Affording students workplace experience before they graduate has become a tool for academic institutions to align their content with industry requirements.

Despite many companies are reluctant to hire young people because they lack the skills and experience needed to succeed, Carnival City stretched its wings and opened doors for students.

At least twenty-nine learnership programmes have been running since November last year with students feeling hopeful about their employment prospects after earning a spot in the learnership.

A 21-year-old graduate, Kutlwelo Molahloe, said that since she began working at the casino, she has learned how to manage weekly promotions, interact with customers, and understand their needs.

She said, “I have also gained marketing experience in updating posters and designs, as well as gathering information about competitors. I hope to acquire hands-on experience in various marketing functions and develop practical skills, including digital marketing and campaign management.”

While the young participants have completed four to five months of training, they still have several more months to gain additional knowledge about the hospitality industry during the 12-month programme.

Bryan O’Connor, Carnival City General Manager admitted that youth unemployment is a significant socio-economic challenge in South Africa.

Adding that the programme provides practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, enhancing their employability and bridging the gap between education and the labour market.

Wealth of experience for learners undergoing training

“Sun International supports employment opportunities and provides graduate jobs and bursaries, and Carnival City, as one of its properties, offers employment opportunities to young people when possible.

“We believe the ten learners currently training with us will gain a wealth of experience learning about the gaming and hospitality industry,” he explained.

Mhleli Sibiya, 21, who completed an N6 in Electrical Engineering from Ekurhuleni TVET, said he is applying his electrical engineering qualifications to good use and learning a lot along the way.

Sibiya highlighted that the quality of the training and how his co-workers have welcomed him have been ‘phenomenal’.

Another student, Gareaipha Thobejane, 22, has gained hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing gaming machines and cashiering equipment.

“I am confident that by November 2025, I will have the expertise needed to excel in my role. I am eager to keep learning and growing, and I am grateful for the opportunities provided by this programme,” she said.

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The learnerships are divided between two groups: tertiary graduates who are participating in the Youth Employment Service (YES) South Africa programme, which started in December, and grade 12 graduates who have been placed in the Food and Beverage and Cashiering divisions from November.

Ten tertiary learners are gaining hands-on career experience at Carnival City, Sun International’s casino and hotel on the East Rand, through YES.

YES is a private sector-led initiative designed to tackle youth unemployment in South Africa. The non-profit organisation partners with corporations to create job opportunities and offer 12-month work experiences for unemployed youth, who in turn, acquire valuable skills.

Since its inception in 2018, YES has created about 170,000 work opportunities.

Manthiba Musi, Carnival City’s Learning and Change Specialist, said they view opportunity as key.

“By implementing this programme, we go beyond workplace experience. It is a pathway to meaningful employment and career success. By providing young South Africans with practical skills and industry exposure,” she added.

Musi said they empower individuals and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

In December, Carnival City placed 10 learners who had just completed their tertiary studies in various departments – three in the Technical and Slots Department on the casino floor, two in Marketing, two in Finance, and two in the Human Resources and Learning and Development Department, as well as one in the IT Department.

“We install, maintain, and repair gaming machines, including tables. I have gained experience with cashiering equipment, including note counters.

“The experience has been both amazing and challenging, as I started with limited knowledge from my Mechanical Engineering background.

“This has pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I am eager to learn more,” said a 23-year-old Zintle Princess Mabena, who holds a higher certificate in Mechanical Engineering.

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“By placing learners in key departments like HR, IT, and Marketing, we provide valuable hands-on experience that prepares them for the modern workforce.

“In return, we gain fresh perspectives and develop a talent pipeline for future needs. This investment in youth fosters a culture of learning and adaptability, ensuring that Carnival City and South Africa thrive in a changing business environment,” Musi reckons.

Tsholofelo Julia Ndlovu, 26, said she has gained valuable experience in the Marketing Department. Ndlovu said they have received training to enhance their skills and deepen their understanding of their roles.