Gaming licences are only granted under the strict supervision of the Gauteng Gaming Board and training and community empowerment guarantees must be fulfilled. London Clubs International plc (LCI), the majority shareholder of Emerald Safari Casino has renewed a training contract with ADvTECH Skills of the JSE-listed ADvTECH group for an e-learning solution following initial implementation in 2000. The total value of the training investment from 2000 to 2002 exceeds half a million rand.
Group HR manager at LCI, South Africa, Martin Rice says, "The Skills Development Act underpins employment equity and LCI`s training strategy aims at creating opportunities for all employees to enhance their skills within their personal growth plan. Our training is a mix of instructor-led courses, projects and e-learning. ADvTECH Skills TBT courses give 24-hour accessibility to reach the full range of employees."
The suite of TBT courses includes NetG introductory courses to the personal computer and Microsoft Office training modules. SkillSoft material, on coaching and leadership, using formal discipline measures, budgeting and cash management, was selected to build business and soft skills. An ADvTECH Skills consultant supplies an ongoing service for course identification, learner monitoring and problem resolution.
LCI, based in London, with 30 years gaming experience, provides an international gaming experience, with venues such as St James, Les Ambassadeurs and The Rendezvous Casino. LCI operates casinos in Egypt, Lebanon, South Africa and Las Vegas. The temporary Emerald Safari Casino opened in December 1998, with 400 slots and 20 gaming tables. The larger permanent casino opens in mid 2001, with 600 slots and 30 gaming tables. LCI offers the SA market a complete leisure experience with hotel, self-catering, caravan and camping accommodation. Sited on 450 hectares next to the Vaal River, facilities include water sports, a domed waterworld and a zoo designed by the Pretoria Zoological Gardens.
E-learning reaches all Emerald Safari Casino employees via the in-house training centre and the employees` desktop. "The built-in reporting system offers a vital tool for ensuring that courses and the results are in line with the skills plan", says Mike Pitsillis, ADvTECH Skills MD. "We work in partnership with the client, add further value through ongoing support, tailor the training to develop optimal outcomes, underpinning long-term business goals. "
"LCI commitment to local black empowerment included outsourcing services to small businesses and developing black management. Emerald Safari Casino employs and trains previously disadvantaged individuals who have matric and the profile suited to our business", concludes Rice.
"Exposure to gaming skills is non-existent and matriculants need the soft skills so necessary in dealing with visitors, and business skills. By May 2001 we will have 750 employees and every staff member is committed to the training with line managers responsible for employee motivation. This partnership with ADvTECH Skills has put us solidly on track, turning our long-term training goals into a mutually beneficial reality for both staff and LCI, supporting the success of Emerald Safari Casino."
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