By Yunus S Saliu
Four diploma students from the Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute (GTHI) are among the international hospitality students, currently, in the Kingdom of Morocco, participating in the 2nd Edition of The Culinary Challenge Competition.
The event is taking place from April 8 to April 12, 2025, and was organized by Mohammedia Vocational High School for Hospitality and Tourism (MVHSHT) in collaboration with the Qualifying High School for Hotel and Tourism Professions and Lassale College Morocco.
The competition aims to promote the professional path of hospitality students and apprentices, helping them develop a passion for their craft and a commitment to excellence. It provides an opportunity for students to assert their personality, initiative, and practical skills, all while earning well-deserved recognition for their efforts in the hotel industry.
The GTHI team, known as Team Gambia, consists of Muhammed Jarra, Rohey Jobe, Hassan Demba, and Ousman Camara. They are being accompanied by their trainer, Peter Mendy, Head of the Research Department at GTHI. The competition includes various stages, such as Kitchen, Pastry Shop, Bakery, Service, and Barista.
Other countries participating alongside GTHI include Morocco, France, Italy, Canada, Tunisia, and Senegal.
In a brief interview before their departure to Morocco, trainer Peter Mendy highlighted that while this is not the first time GTHI has participated in a culinary competition, it is the first time the institute is competing on the international stage with participants from multiple continents.
Mendy explained, “Four diploma students were selected through a rigorous process to represent GTHI in various categories, including appetizers, main course, service area, and restaurant setting. The expectations are high, but we are confident in their technical skills and experience. Our goal is to bring home at least two or three awards.”
Emphasizing the importance of teamwork and hospitality, Mendy noted the value of representing Gambia and networking with other international institutions. He also expressed his gratitude to the University Hospitality School in Morocco for inviting GTHI to participate in this prestigious competition and to GTHI’s management for their continued support in building the students’ capacities.
Muhammed Jarra and Rohey Jobe, speaking on behalf of Team Gambia, expressed optimism about the competition and a strong desire to win trophies to present to their institute.
