The Department of Tourism has opened doors for tourist guides across South Africa with an exciting initiative for the 2025/26 financial year. Registered guides are invited to apply for the Foreign Language Training Programme, which focuses on equipping professionals with Mandarin language skills to better serve one of the country’s fastest-growing tourism markets: Chinese visitors.
This programme is more than just a language course—it’s a gateway to career growth, cultural exchange, and international market access. By learning Mandarin, tourist guides will not only improve the visitor experience for Chinese tourists but also expand their own business opportunities in a highly competitive industry.
Programme Details
The training will be delivered at Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK1 and HSK2) levels, internationally recognised standards of Mandarin proficiency. Successful candidates who complete these levels and pass the official exams will be considered for Phase 2 of the programme, which includes cultural immersion training in China.
This unique opportunity ensures that guides gain both linguistic ability and cultural understanding—skills that are invaluable in providing memorable tourism experiences.
Who Can Apply?
The Department is looking for dedicated, passionate, and experienced tourist guides. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens with valid tourist guide registration (freelance or employed).
- Submit a written motivation (not exceeding one page) explaining why they should be selected.
- Provide certified copies of their South African ID and valid tourist guide registration card.
- Demonstrate 1–2 years’ experience preferably with foreign or Chinese tourists.
- Have effective communication skills, basic computer literacy, and access to devices with internet connection (for online training).
Preference will be given to women, youth, and individuals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
Application Process
Interested guides must email their applications, including:
- A concise CV.
- A one-page written motivation.
- Certified copies of required documents.
Send all applications to: TGtraining@tourism.gov.za
Please note: Successful candidates will undergo vetting and sign a learner contract as commitment to the programme. Training will include both online and physical sessions, mainly in Gauteng. If you do not hear back within three months of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
DOWNLOAD THE MANDARIN LANGUAGE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TOURIST GUIDES 2025 ADVERT HERE
Why This Matters
With South Africa welcoming increasing numbers of Chinese tourists, the ability to communicate in Mandarin offers a strategic advantage. This programme empowers local guides with critical skills, fosters inclusivity in tourism, and strengthens South Africa’s reputation as a welcoming global destination.
For those eager to grow their careers, embrace new cultures, and make tourism more accessible and engaging for Chinese visitors, this training is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Take the first step towards becoming a Mandarin-speaking tourist guide and transform your career in 2025!
CLOSING DATE: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025
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