The Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) plays a vital role in developing South Africa’s workforce. It equips learners with practical skills and education opportunities across culture, arts, tourism, hospitality, and sport. This article explores what CATHSSETA is, how it operates, and how South Africans can benefit from its programmes.
What is CATHSSETA?
CATHSSETA is a statutory body established under the Skills Development Act of 1998. Originally known as the Tourism and Hospitality Education and Training Authority (THETA), it was renamed in 2012 to include culture, arts, and sport.
Its focus areas include:
- Culture & Arts: music, theatre, dance, visual arts.
- Tourism & Hospitality: hotels, lodges, restaurants, travel, and events.
- Sport Development: training coaches, administrators, and support staff.
CATHSSETA is part of the wider SETA system in South Africa, which promotes skills development and supports the National Skills Development Strategy.
How CATHSSETA Works
- Funding: Employers in the sector contribute 1% of their payroll as Skills Development Levies. A portion of this is allocated to CATHSSETA for administration and grants.
- Partnerships: Works closely with employers, training providers, and government to deliver programmes.
- Accreditation: Approves and monitors training providers to ensure quality learning.
For more details on how SETAs function, see the Department of Higher Education and Training.
CATHSSETA Learnerships
Learnerships combine theory with practical workplace experience, leading to recognised qualifications.
- Eligibility: Typically for unemployed youth or employees wanting to upskill.
- Duration: Usually 12 months.
- Examples: Event management, hospitality management, sports coaching.
- Application Process: Apply through accredited training providers or directly via the CATHSSETA website.
- Benefits: Learners receive stipends, qualifications, and work experience.
CATHSSETA Bursaries
Bursaries support students studying culture, tourism, hospitality, or sports-related fields.
- Who Qualifies: Learners enrolled at recognised universities or TVET colleges.
- Courses Funded: Hospitality, tourism management, performing arts, sports science, and related qualifications.
- Application Requirements: Certified ID, proof of registration, motivation letter, and academic records.
- Timelines: Calls for bursary applications usually open annually on the CATHSSETA bursary portal.
Other CATHSSETA Programmes
Beyond learnerships and bursaries, CATHSSETA also offers:
- Skills Programmes: Short accredited courses that improve specific workplace skills.
- Internships: Practical exposure for graduates.
- Apprenticeships: Trade-related training with certification.
- Adult Education and Training (ABET): Basic education opportunities for adults.
Careers Supported by CATHSSETA
CATHSSETA programmes prepare learners for a range of careers, such as:
- Entry-Level: Hotel staff, sports assistants, cultural assistants.
- Skilled Roles: Tour guides, chefs, event coordinators, coaches.
- Professional Roles: Hospitality managers, sports administrators, cultural managers.
- Entrepreneurship: Opportunities to start businesses in tourism, hospitality, and creative industries.
How to Apply for CATHSSETA Opportunities
- Step 1: Visit the official CATHSSETA website or regional offices.
- Step 2: Identify available programmes (learnerships, bursaries, skills training).
- Step 3: Prepare required documents (CV, certified ID, academic results, proof of residence).
- Step 4: Apply online or submit through accredited training providers.
- Step 5: Attend interviews or assessments if required.
Always ensure the training provider is CATHSSETA-accredited before applying.
How to Avoid Scams
- CATHSSETA never asks applicants to pay for opportunities.
- Verify offers via the official website.
- Report suspicious activities to CATHSSETA’s fraud hotline.
Benefits of CATHSSETA for South Africans
- Improved employability in high-demand sectors.
- Financial support for education and training.
- Work experience for graduates.
- Support for entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Contact Details
- Head Office: 270 George Road, Randburg, Johannesburg
- Phone: +27 (0)11 217 0600
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.cathsseta.org.za
- Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn
CATHSSETA continues to play a crucial role in developing skills that drive growth in culture, arts, tourism, hospitality, and sport. By supporting learners with funding and practical opportunities, it helps build a skilled workforce and contributes to South Africa’s economic future.
Related: Understanding AgriSETA: Key Insights and Information