Accra Technical University (ATU) is planning to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and the Hotel Catering and Tourism Training Institute (HOTCATT) to foster collaboration in practical and professional training, research and program development for the tourism, Hospitality Culinary industry.
The agreement, if signed would create short-term practical programs that will enhance skills development and bridge the gap between academia and industry.
The Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, explained that the MoU seeks to promote cooperation in areas such as admissions, facilities development, research, and visibility. He emphasized that the partnership will strengthen hands-on learning and innovation for trainees and industry professionals.
Speaking at a meeting to facilitate this , Abla Dzifa Gomashie commended the initiative, noting that the hospitality and tourism sectors require more practical training opportunities. She reaffirmed her commitment to promoting collaborations that improve service delivery and professionalism in the industry.
According to the Minister, “There is no place I visit without calling for investors to support the training needs of the sector. The attitude of some service providers, who behave as though they are doing customers a favour, must change. Service delivery should be professional, and staff should be easily identifiable, even in restaurants.”
The meeting was attended by the Acting Director of HOTCATT, Afornorpe, who was present with the team from ATU to meet with the Minister. Also present were the Human Resource Director at the Ministry, Vitus Langmagne, who welcomed the group on behalf of the Minister, and the Director of Tourism, Jeoffery Tamakloe.
The collaboration is expected to open new opportunities for research, training, and professional development, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s creative and tourism industries through enhanced technical education and industry partnerships.
