Accra: Accra Technical University (ATU) is set 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 boost Ghana's tourism sector. The agreement aims to create a collaborative environment for practical training, research, and programme development within the tourism, hospitality, and culinary industries.

According to Ghana News Agency, the MoU will introduce short-term practical programmes designed to enhance skills development and bridge the gap between academia and industry. This initiative was discussed at a facilitation meeting in Accra, where Professor Amevi Acakpovi, Vice-Chancellor of ATU, emphasized the importance of the partnership in promoting cooperation in admissions, facilities development, research, and institutional visibility.

Professor Acakpovi highlighted that the collaboration would focus on strengthening hands-on learning and fostering innovation among trainees and industry professionals. This approach is expected to align academic outputs with industry needs, thus enhancing the overall quality of service in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, praised the initiative for its potential to provide more practical training opportunities. She reiterated her commitment to supporting collaborations that aim to improve service delivery and professionalism within the sector. During her remarks, she urged for a shift in attitude among service providers, emphasizing the need for professionalism and identifiable service staff to enhance customer experience.

The MoU is seen as a strategic move to attract more investment into the training needs of the sector, thereby ensuring that the workforce is well-equipped to meet the demands of an evolving industry landscape.