By Yunus S Saliu
The management of the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI) and the Gambia Hotel Association (GHA) on Friday conducted a pre-departure orientation program for ten Gambian hospitality staff who were awarded a three-week training package to study in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The training scholarship package program in pastry and bakery for the ten selected hospitality staff were offered by the Moroccan authorities through the Gambia Hotel Association and Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute.
In his opening remarks, Modou Lamin Singhateh, the Director General of Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute explained the rigorous efforts and consistent support from the GTHI Executive Secretary that led to the approval from Moroccan authorities for the GHA to offer 10 scholarships for a three-week training program in pastry and bakery in Morocco for the Gambia hospitality staff.
The DG informed them about the importance of the pre-orientation departure training saying it is necessary to leverage this opportunity for future collaborations, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts and the potential for long-lasting relationships.
With excitement and anticipation for the upcoming training program and its potential impact on the hotel industry in the Gambia, the GTHI Director General wished the participants good luck and expressed confidence in their ability to make a difference upon return, while he thanked Moroccan authorities for the support.
Marion Nyang, Executive Secretary of the Gambia Hotel Association congratulated awardees and emphasized the importance of leveraging experience gathered for continuous learning and cultural exchange while advising them to take extensive notes, ask questions, and share knowledge upon return.
While expressing, on behalf of GHA, the sincere appreciation for the collaboration between the two institutions, she noted that consultations for the program started over two and a half years ago noting that the delay was due to COVID-19 then, but the timing is seen as beneficial, with a focus on the positive outcomes for the selected candidates.
The Executive Secretary however planned practical training sessions for those who do not attend thus the program is expected to enhance skills and contribute to the hotel industry in the Gambia and urged them to take extensive notes, ask questions, and share recipes and ingredients to make a significant impact upon their return.
Ma’am Nyang expressed gratitude to the Moroccan authorities for this good gesture and prayed for the continuity of the opportunities.
Dawda Baldeh, the Registrar for the GTHI gave a comprehensive note about dos and don’ts and relevant information regarding travelling and behavior for the participants. Human Resources from different hotels gave additional information and words of encouragement to the participants.
Beneficiaries include staff of Senegambia Beach Hotel, Paradise Suites Hotel, Bakadaji Hotel, Ngala Lodge, Kairaba Beach Hotel, and GTHI.
