The Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) presented survey findings on skills needs in the tourism and hospitality sector during a validation session at NG Tower, Ebène.
The findings were presented to professionals and operators from the tourism industry as well as representatives from public and private bodies and training institutions.
According to Mr Raj Auckloo, director of HRDC, the study had as objectives to assess skill status in the tourism and hospitality sector in Mauritius and provide a basis to build projects to address skills gaps and eventually come up with policy recommendations to remedy the situation in the sector.
The survey was carried out among 132 enterprises engaged in the tourism and hospitality.
According to the findings, the most preferred skills in-demand for the sector for the next five years are:
– good communication abilities with regard to spoken, written and presentation skills;
– team work;
– ability to work systematically;
– customer handling skills;
– good working attitude;
– ability to continuously learn.
The study highlighted the key role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training in providing adequate occupational skills for those in the tourism industry. It also confirmed the relevance of placement/on-the-job training. The findings show that soft skills are essential elements for individuals working in the sector. The importance of linkages between employers and training providers so as to provide high quality services and as well to address the issue of skills mismatch was also highlighted.