The Department of Hospitality and Tourism Studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, in collaboration with KNUST Career Services Centre hosted the Practitioners Forum at the KNUST School of Business Postgraduate Block E on Thursday, 25th July 2024.
Professor Foster Frempong, Head of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Studies delivering the welcome address, emphasised the importance of the Forum as a valuable platform for students to gain insights from industry professionals, enabling them to better prepare for their future careers. He highlighted the Forum's role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
The Dean of the KNUST School of Business, Professor Ahmed Agyapong, underscored the significance of the Forum within the academic calendar. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities it provides and its role in the professional development of students. Professor Agyapong noted that the Forum allows students to interact directly with industry professionals, thereby enhancing their understanding of the professional world and industry trends.
Mrs. Selina Angmor, Director of the KNUST Career Services Centre, provided an overview of the Centre's services and mission. She emphasized the Centre’s role in bridging the gap between academia and industry. She noted that the establishment of the KNUST Career Services Centre demonstrates the University's commitment to equipping students with the necessary resources and opportunities to realize their full potentials. She added that the Centre aims to foster entrepreneurial skills and international competitiveness, serving as a beacon of hope and a hub of opportunities. According to her, the Centre provides essential guidance, support, and resources to help students navigate their career paths with confidence and determination, ultimately enabling them to become successful professionals.
Mrs. Josephine Owusu Adu, the Chief Executive Officer of Cylot Events, delivered a speech on the “Evolution of the Meeting and Events Industry.” She discussed the significance of staying updated with industry trends, noting the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly practices. For instance, event centres are now designed with health considerations in mind, resulting in less crowded and healthier setups after COVID-19. Additionally, there has been a shift from using real flowers to artificial ones in floral decorations to promote sustainability. She outlined the key skills required in the job market, including technical skills, practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills. She also mentioned emerging trends in the event industry, such as Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and enhanced health and safety measures. She advised students to maintain a strong online presence, network effectively, and continuously build their skills to stay competitive in the evolving industrial landscape.
Mr. Jeffrey Amissah, the Creative Director of Edenvine Cocktails, and a Luxury Event Connoisseur, highlighted the key skills needed in the professional environment. He stressed the importance of teamwork, critical thinking skills, effective communication, and professionalism. Mr. Amissah explained that these skills are essential for success in any industry, particularly in the highly competitive field of luxury events. He shared insights from his experiences in managing high-end events and cocktail services, emphasizing the need for creativity, attention to detail, and a customer-centric approach. He advised the students to cultivate these skills to stand out in the professional world.
Mr. Eugene Vidzro, Executive Director at 90 Degrees Ghana LLC, focused his presentation on the hotel industry. As an experienced executive in the hospitality sector, Mr. Vidzro provided insights into current trends and essential skills for success in the hospitality industry. He discussed the importance of customer service excellence, the integration of technology in hotel operations, and the growing demand for sustainable practices in hospitality. He emphasised that adaptability, continuous learning, and a commitment to high standards are key to thrive in the hospitality industry.
Miss Louisa Frimpomaa Abayie, Head of Business at JubAy Avenue, made a presentation on Travel and Tours. She advised the students on the importance of mastering their trade and avoiding excuses in the workplace. She encouraged them to excel in their chosen fields by continuously improving their skills and knowledge. She discussed the critical role of customer satisfaction in the travel industry and the need for professionals to be adaptable and responsive to changing market demands. Miss Abayie also highlighted the benefits of cultural awareness and effective communication in delivering exceptional travel experiences.