Tamale Technical University (TaTU) has graduated about 582 students who received intensive training in hospitality management and entrepreneurship to equip them for self-employment.
The programme, executed by the Department of Hospitality and Catering Management (DHCM) of TaTU with funding support from the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR), is part of a national training and retraining programme under the Obatanpa-care initiative, a post-COVID-19 initiative of the government.
The project is aimed at empowering the youth with the requisite skills to venture into the field of hospitality and tourism to enable them to contribute significantly to the revival and growth of the industry in their localities.
Among others, the programme is also designed to equip the students with new knowledge and instill in them the value of good work ethics, productivity and attitudinal change.
Out of the number, 149 students graduated with certificates in Conference, Banqueting and Event Management, 131 in Food and Beverage Operation, 121 in Food Processing, 44 in Tour Guiding Techniques, and 47 in Front Office Operation.
Akwasi Owusu Manu, representing Minister of Finance Ken Ofori Atta at the programme, mentioned that the initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to the empowerment of Ghanaian workers.
“The skills you have acquired here are tools that would help you adapt and thrive in an ever-changing environment to embrace change, be open to new ideas, and explore the boundaries of your potential.
“As graduates of the National Training and Retraining Programme, you carry the torch of knowledge, innovation and progress. Use these torches to illuminate the path for those who follow in your footsteps, just as those before you have done for you; and be a beacon of inspiration to those who may doubt their ability to change and grow,” he advised.
Vice Chancellor of TaTU, Prof. Braimah, on his part, reiterated the commitment of the university to train more resource personnel for the country.
He advised the beneficiaries to make good use of the skills acquired to develop their career, saying: “The hospitality industry is the fastest growing sector in Ghana that has the capacity to employ more people than any other industry, and you must thank yourself and the government for the opportunity to have been equipped with the requisite skills that can make you self-employed”.
Implementation committee member, Dr. Michael Brigandi, taking his turn, said: “In the face of unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, you have demonstrated remarkable determination and dedication. Today we celebrate not just your achievement in completing this comprehensive programme, but also your unwavering spirit that has led you through this transformative journey”.
He further urged them to step into the world with boldness to put into practice the knowledge, expertise and skills acquired.
Head of the DHCM Alhassan Fatawu said the selection of TaTU as the only institution in northern Ghana to implement the programme is a testament to the university’s commitment to training quality and qualified hospitality, tourism and catering graduates for the industries in Ghana.
“The determination and commitment of the beneficiaries in taking part in the programme encouraged our lecturers to give their best,” he said.
