Tourism Minster Re-opens HOTCATT

Catherine Afeku, the Minister of Tourism, culture and Arts has reopened the Hotel, Catering and Tourism Training Institute (HOTCATT) in Accra.

The institute which was a forgotten institution pivotal in the industry comes back to life years after its neglect.
HOTCATT, established with only a single objective to upgrade skills and competence in all levels of personnel in the hotel, catering and tourism industry is set to help transform Ghana into a competitive tourism destination.
Speaking at the re-opening of the institute in Accra yesterday, Catherine Afeiku, the Minister of Tourism said the decision to embark on such journey felt like an impossible task since the place was very dilapidated, rundown and very discouraging.

She said over the years, budgetary allocations, focus and skills development in the hospitality sector were made, various directors also came and highlighted the importance of the sector.
The Tourism Minister indicated that the needs of the rehabilitation is the beginning of a model replicated across the country to create training opportunities and skills for the young who have passion for the hotel and tourism sector.

She disclosed that all establishments who pay their 1% levy will be encouraged to enroll their staff for refreshers courses at a discount, adding that the move will motivate others who have not registered with Ghana Tourism Authority to do so.

“As part of the strategy to extend training to all practitioners in other regions we will use the same model to encourage and bring training to the door step of our labour pool” she said.
However she urged other private sectors in different regions to come on board with similar offerings to support their agenda of skill development across the country.

Source: thepublisher