Accra: Ghana's hospitality sector is hampered by the absence of a world-class managerial training institute, affecting labour supply and service quality. Despite strong tourism arrivals and rising guest expenditure, the industry faces a shortage of qualified personnel, particularly at supervisory and managerial levels.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Ralph Ayitey, Chief Executive Officer of Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, highlighted the challenges in recruiting competent supervisors and managers. He pointed out that while sectors such as fashion had developed structured training institutions, the hospitality sector lagged behind in formal, high-level education.
Mr. Ayitey emphasized the necessity for a specialized institute to produce skilled labour that complements the sector's efforts. He advocated for a world-class managerial training institute capable of providing the kind of labour needed to support the work being undertaken by the hospitality industry.
Additionally, Mr Ayitey underscored the importance of precision and expertise in enhancing guest experience and called for consistency in government policy. He urged that newer initiatives like the 'Black Star experience' and the Diaspora Secretariat be aligned with earlier efforts such as 'December in GH'.
Mr. Ayitey also noted that quality labour is essential for investors to make accurate forecasts and commit to long-term ventures, stressing that a dedicated training institute is vital to sustain the industry's growth and its role in national development.
