By Fatoumatta Krubally
The Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI) hosted a validation workshop on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute in Kanifing.
The event, organized under the Tourism Diversification and Resilience Project, aimed to gather crucial stakeholder feedback on the final draft of the GTHI Redevelopment Plan.
The workshop was graced by esteemed guests, including the Director General of GTHI, Mr. Momodou Singhateh, and project Director Modou Ceesay, who delivered a speech on behalf of the Permanent Secretary.
During the workshop, Eric Olmedo, the lead consultant, gave a presentation on the progress made in the redevelopment plan. He expressed his delight in being part of such a transformative initiative, emphasizing the importance of industry-led approaches to curriculum revision and development. Olmedo highlighted the key deliverables achieved through the Tourism Diversification and Resilience Project, including the assessment of training demand, supply, and capacity gaps, the revision of existing curricula, and the development of new programs and short courses.
Mr. Momodou Ceesay, Tourism Diversification and Resilience in The Gambia Project
Project Implementation Unitthanked the participants for their dedication to advancing the tourism and hospitality industry in The Gambia. He acknowledged the collaborative effort of stakeholders in shaping the future of GTHI and ensuring that the institution meets the evolving demands of the global tourism market. Ceesay emphasized the importance of improving human capital in the country, as outlined in the National Development Plan (YIRIWA) 2023-2027.
The workshop provided a platform for meaningful discussions, sharing of insights, and collaboration on best practices to drive the diversification and resilience of the tourism sector. Participants engaged in constructive dialogue, explored innovative solutions, and developed actionable plans to guide future endeavors. The event was a significant step towards ensuring that the GTHI remains vibrant, sustainable, and capable of delivering exceptional experiences to visitors from around the world.
The validation workshop marked a pivotal moment in the journey towards strengthening the capacity of GTHI and meeting the emerging market trends in tourism and hospitality. With the support of stakeholders and the commitment of industry professionals, the Gambia’s tourism sector is poised for a brighter and more prosperous future.