Thanks to Courtenay Carey ‘The South African School of Etiquette’ opened in May and it’s located at the five-star Le Chatelat Residence in Sandhurst, Johannesburg. Carey holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree in politics, philosophy and economics and attended the Protocol School of Washington. She said:

We recognised and identified a lack of social skills and [an inability in] individuals to express themselves confidently and clearly.

Owing to our country’s history, social skills were not necessarily taught due to absent parents, inadequate education and cultural differences.

The world has become more technologically connected; however it is causing a social disconnection. Our social intelligence is suffering due to the loss of face-to-face interaction.

According to Carey, the lack of “common courtesies” is a major problem in South Africa. She hopes to have more etiquette schools in South Africa.

These are a few of the courses available, and they start from R3,950.

• “How To Be A Gentleman”, in which men are taught, among other things, grooming, being chivalrous to women, and toasting;

• “The Art of Dining”, which offers instruction in “cutlery navigation” and wine etiquette;

• “Outshine the Competition”, which includes how to work a room; and

• “Finishing School for Teens”, which covers conversational skills, appropriate wear and table manners.

[Source: Times Live]