By Samuel Sam
The Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) at Tamale Technical University (TaTU) recently held its 16th practical projects and annual exhibition for final-year students, showcasing their creative work.
The event, titled ‘Greening the Future: Sustainable Innovations in Hospitality and Tourism’, brought together various departments, university management and industry stakeholders to evaluate students’ potential and emphasise the importance of collective responsibility in fostering sustainable practices within the industry.
Products displayed at the event included pastries, canned goods, soft drinks, cooked foods, grains and other items made from local raw materials by the final-year students.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Conrad Wuleka Kuuder – Head-Department of Ecotourism and Hospitality, University for Development Studies (UDS) – praised the department for its efforts in preparing the younger generation for a sustainable future. He highlighted the importance of green innovations.
“Green building practices help utilise recycled materials, optimise energy efficiencies and incorporate natural lighting and ventilation in the construction of eco-friendly hotels,” he stated.
“In the advanced world, many tour operators are now investing in electric vehicles, bike rentals and shuttle services that encourage eco-friendly travel for transport, hence we have to implement the same,” he said.
Prof. Bawah Yussif Adam, Dean of Applied Arts, representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Bashiru Ibn Moro Saeed, mentioned that the tourism and hospitality industry plays a pivotal role in the global economy – and in Ghana as a significant contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He said training students in hospitality and tourism is resource intensive and therefore requires significant investment in modern facilities, up-to-date technology, industry standard equipment and experienced faculty, hence the need for private sector support or industry partnership.
“We not only ensure our students learn the skills required by industry but also that they understand the importance of sustainability. We as well equip them to lead the transition toward greener practices,” he said.
The dean also added that the institution is committed to empowering women through education and innovation. With women representing the majority in that sector, but underrepresented, it creates need for support to bridge the gap and empower more women to take up leadership positions in the industry.
The Dean for Faculty of Applied Science and Technology, Prof Abdul-Aziz Ibn Musah, said embracing sustainable practices can reduce the ecological footprint, support local communities and promote a more inclusive and resilient industry.
Head of Department for HTM, Dr. Abdul-Rahaman Haadi, noted that sustainability is not merely a trend; it is a necessity, and the hospitality and tourism sectors are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in promoting sustainable practices that can mitigate adverse effects of climate change and environmental degradation.
