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Department of Tourism Mandarin Language Training 2026: Apply for Tourist Guide Programme

The Department of Tourism is inviting registered tourist guides across South Africa to apply for the Online Mandarin Language Training Programme for the 2026/27 financial year. Applications close on 19 June 2026

IYOUTH.CO.ZA

Jun 8, 2026 - 09:19

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Department of Tourism Mandarin Language Training 2026: Apply for Tourist Guide Programme

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM MANDARIN LANGUAGE TRAINING: TOURIST GUIDE PROGRAMME

Introduction

The Department of Tourism is inviting applications from registered tourist guides operating across South Africa to apply for the Online Mandarin Language Training Opportunity for Tourist Guides.

This programme will be funded by the Department of Tourism for the 2026/27 financial year and will focus on Mandarin language training at Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi Level 1, also known as HSK1.

The main aim of this training is to help existing tourist guides improve their Mandarin language skills so they can better serve Chinese tourists and enhance visitor experiences in South Africa.

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About the Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism is responsible for supporting and developing South Africa’s tourism sector. Through training and development programmes, the department helps tourism professionals improve their skills, access new markets and contribute to the growth of the tourism industry.

This Mandarin language training opportunity is part of the department’s efforts to capacitate tourist guides and strengthen service delivery for international visitors.

Quick Programme Overview

Details	Information
Department	Department of Tourism
Programme	Online Mandarin Language Training
Target Group	Registered Tourist Guides
Training Level	HSK1 Mandarin
Training Format	Online
Duration	4 to 5 weeks
Training Days	Monday to Friday
Application Method	Email submission
Email Address	TGtraining@tourism.gov.za
Closing Date	19 June 2026

About the Mandarin Language Training Programme

The Department of Tourism will be implementing Mandarin language training for registered tourist guides in South Africa.

The programme is designed to help guides communicate better with visitors from the Chinese market. It is especially useful for tourist guides who want to expand their market access and improve their business opportunities with Chinese and foreign tourists.

The training will take place online and will run continuously for a period of 4 to 5 weeks, from Monday to Friday.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to registered tourist guides who meet the admission criteria.

Applicants must be:

South African citizens or permanent residents
Existing freelance, employed or unemployed tourist guides
In possession of valid tourist guide registration
Interested in market access and business opportunities in the Chinese market
Able to communicate effectively
Computer literate with basic computer skills
Able to access their own device and internet connection for online training

Experience Required

Preference may be given to freelance or employed tourist guides with at least 1 to 2 years’ experience, especially those who have worked with Chinese or foreign tourists.

However, the advert also includes unemployed tourist guides with valid tourist guide registration, meaning registered unemployed guides may also apply.

Admission Requirements

Interested registered tourist guides must submit the following:

A written motivation of not more than one page
Full name and surname
Copy of South African ID
Valid tourist guide registration card
Concise CV

The written motivation should clearly explain why the applicant should be selected to undergo Mandarin language training.

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Selection Process

Applicants who meet the requirements will go through a selection process.

Selected candidates will be subjected to:

Vetting processes
Signing of a learner contract
Commitment to the training programme

The Department of Tourism also states that priority sectors identified by government will be given preference during the selection process.

Training Requirements

Because the programme will be conducted online, applicants must have access to:

Laptop or PC
Internet connectivity
Basic computer skills
Reliable availability for online training sessions

The Department will reimburse learners for data costs associated with the training, subject to the learner agreement that successful candidates will be expected to sign.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted by email.

Applicants must send their application documents to:

TGtraining@tourism.gov.za

Your application should include:

One-page motivation
Concise CV
Copy of South African ID
Copy of valid tourist guide registration card
Full name and surname

Make sure your documents are clear and submitted before the closing date.

Application Closing Date

The closing date for applications is: 19 June 2026

Late applications may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to submit their documents as early as possible.

Important Notice

Only successful candidates will receive communication about logistical arrangements.

If you have not been contacted within three months after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.

iYouth Advice

Before applying, make sure your motivation letter is clear and professional. Explain why Mandarin training will help you as a tourist guide and how it can improve your ability to serve Chinese tourists.

Also make sure your tourist guide registration card is still valid. Since this training is for registered tourist guides, applicants without valid registration may not qualify.

Your CV should highlight your tourism experience, guiding experience, languages spoken, customer service skills and any experience working with international tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this programme about?

It is an online Mandarin language training programme for registered tourist guides in South Africa.

Who is offering the programme?

The programme is offered by the Department of Tourism.

What level of Mandarin will be taught?

The training will be at HSK1 level.

Who can apply?

Registered tourist guides who are South African citizens or permanent residents can apply.

Is the training online?

Yes, the programme will be conducted online.

How long will the training run?

The training will run for 4 to 5 weeks, Monday to Friday.

What is the closing date?

The closing date is 19 June 2026.

Where should applications be sent?

Applications must be emailed to TGtraining@tourism.gov.za.

Final Thoughts

The Department of Tourism Mandarin Language Training Programme is a valuable opportunity for registered tourist guides who want to improve their language skills and serve the Chinese tourism market more effectively.

If you are a registered tourist guide with a valid tourist guide registration card, basic computer skills and access to online training, this programme could help you grow your tourism career and access new business opportunities.

iYouth Disclaimer

iYouth is not the Department of Tourism and does not charge any fees for applications. Applicants must apply directly through the official email address provided by the Department of Tourism.

Never pay anyone for training applications, job applications, interviews or placement opportunities.

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IYOUTH.CO.ZA iyouth.co.za is a South African job posting and education blog dedicated to sharing the latest work opportunities and career updates. The platform provides up-to-date information on government and private sector job vacancies, as well as colleges, universities, bursaries, learnerships, internships, and related news to help young people and job seekers stay informed and empowered.