The Hotel, Catering and Tourism Training Institute (HOTCATT) has unveiled an ambitious five-year strategic plan (2025–2029) to strengthen training, modernise curricula and expand industry partnerships as Ghana positions itself to become a premier tourism destination.
Speaking at the 2025 graduation ceremony of HOTCATT held at the National Theatre in Accra, the Acting Director, Eric Kofi Afornorpe, underscored the institute’s role as a pillar in Ghana’s tourism and hospitality landscape since its establishment in 1991. He noted that HOTCATT continues to feature prominently in national tourism development plans, including the current framework that runs to 2027.
“Our five-year strategic plan identifies critical areas of programme development, organisational growth, infrastructural improvement, and TVET-based training,” Mr Afornorpe said. “We are committed to mobile and on-demand training, professional certification, and developing HOTCATT into a centre of excellence for hospitality, tourism, and culinary skills.”
He further revealed ongoing collaborations with the Ghana Tourism Authority, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, trade associations, and institutions such as Accra Technical University, aimed at expanding advanced training pathways and professional certification. HOTCATT is also exploring Halal certification training as part of its curriculum in response to global market demands.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Yussif Isaaka Jajah, who represented the Minister at the ceremony, described HOTCATT as vital to Ghana’s tourism agenda. He stressed that the institute’s training mandate directly aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of making Ghana a premier destination on the continent.
“Tourism is more than an industry it is a celebration of our identity, culture, and potential,” the Deputy Minister said. “The five-year strategic plan prioritises curriculum modernisation, faculty development, digital platforms and infrastructure upgrades, anchored in the Ghana Tourism Act and the TVET Act. Mandatory training and certification will soon be introduced to ensure excellence and accountability across the sector.”
He also disclosed that the government is engaging development partners and private investors to provide resources for modern teaching facilities, demonstration restaurants, smart classrooms, and student accommodation for HOTCATT.
The graduation ceremony, held under the theme “Enhancing Skills for a Sustainable Hospitality Future”, brought together leaders and stakeholders from Ghana’s hospitality and tourism industry, including officials of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Ghana Tourism Development Company, trade associations, diplomats, and academia.
In a rousing call to the graduating class, the Deputy Minister urged them to carry HOTCATT’s reputation with pride as they enter the world of work. “Whether you choose to work in hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, or start your own ventures, you are the co-parents of Ghana’s tourism vision. Let your service reflect excellence.”
HOTCATT alumni were also encouraged to remain active ambassadors of the institute and contribute to its growth. The event concluded with a renewed appeal for stakeholder and investor support to expand HOTCATT’s facilities and sustain its role as Ghana’s flagship training hub for the hospitality and tourism industry.
