ADDIS ABABA – The Tourism Training Institute (TTI) has announced a new initiative to further capacitate 34 polytechnic colleges nationwide by providing targeted training aimed at developing skilled hotel professionals.
TTI’s Deputy Director General Yitaseb Seyoum told The Ethiopian Herald that the selected colleges are receiving comprehensive support to upgrade their training systems and workshops, elevating their hotel and tourism training programs. The institute is also introducing new training schedules and collaborating closely with these colleges under a unified framework.
For over 56 years, the institute has been bridging skill gaps in the hotel and tourism sectors through various degree, certificate, and short-term training programs. Trainees are sent to hotels to convert their theoretical knowledge into practical experience, ensuring a well-rounded professional development.
Yitaseb highlighted the institute’s significant contributions to the industry, including partnerships with hotels, tour operators, and other tourism destinations to enhance collaboration. “We are working with the University of Gondar, Hawassa University, and others to shape training programs, offer consultancy services, and engage in research activities,” he added.
The institute is also preparing hotels to feature 20 traditional Ethiopian foods on their menus, promoting the nation’s culinary heritage to guests. Yitaseb noted that skilled hotel professionals have increased from 33% to 47%, though further efforts are required to fill the remaining gaps in the workforce.
He emphasized that tourism is a human-centered industry that supports other sectors like agriculture and technology, underscoring the critical role of human resources. Recent hotel openings in Addis Ababa have already recruited many graduates from the institute.
Founded in 1968, TTI has played a key role in shaping Ethiopia’s tourism and hospitality industry by offering comprehensive training to aspiring professionals. The institute aims to meet the growing demand for qualified personnel and strengthen the sector’s overall competitiveness.
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER 2024
