WESSA Annual Report 2023-2024

WESSA Academy

The programme kicked off with ten enthusiastic young participants each carefully selected for their potential to emerge as leaders in nature conservation and eco-tourism. In the middle of the programme, two participants landed jobs, illustrating the immediate impact of the training. The remaining eight participants excelled, showcasing not only their newly acquired skills but also their preparedness to assume roles as Nature Site Guides. The successful participants in the programme comprised seven females and one male. I In 2023, WESSA reaffirmed its commitment to environmental education through the successful Nature Site Guide Skills Programme, supported by CATHSSETA. Accredited by ETQA, the programme provided theoretical knowledge and practical experience over three months, preparing participants for the conservation and tourism sectors.

Course, curriculum and engagements

The 2023 training programme was structured around a series of carefully curated modules designed to equip participants with a comprehensive skill set necessary for effective nature site guiding:

importance of tailoring guided experi ences to meet individual preferences, utilising local heritage resources to enhance the visitor experience. 26, 2023) 2 The second phase of training focused on developing participants’ ability to communicate effectively and ethically in a tourism context. This module highlighted the significance of maintaining professionalism and ethical standards, which are essential Effective communication and professional ethics (Jan 22

Understanding tourist needs

(unit standard 8478) 1

Participants began their journey by learning how to assess and respond to the diverse needs, expectations, and limitations of tourists. This foundational module emphasised the

Hazel Khoza conducting assessment training

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WESSA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 – 2024

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