Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, delivered a powerful call to action at the launch of the Eagles Hospitality School in Accra, urging the private sector to weave the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture and high service standards into the very fabric of the hospitality industry. She emphasized the pivotal role the industry plays in shaping global perceptions of Ghana, asserting that every interaction with a guest is an opportunity to create a positive and lasting impression. The Minister envisioned a future where every hotel room, tour vehicle, and restaurant resonates with the unique identity of Ghana, effectively transforming every guest into an ambassador for the nation. Her address served as a clarion call for a paradigm shift in the hospitality sector, placing cultural immersion and service excellence at the forefront of the industry’s ethos.
Gomashie’s appeal went beyond mere integration of cultural elements; she stressed the importance of infusing traditional Ghanaian values of discipline, respect, and cultural pride into the core of hospitality training. Drawing from her upbringing in Burma Camp, she lamented the decline of traditional courtesies, emphasizing the significance of simple gestures like saying “Yes, please” or rising to greet guests. She argued that true hospitality extends beyond the physical attractions and amenities, encompassing the warmth of human interaction and the genuine care displayed by service providers. The knowledge shared by a tour guide, the attentiveness of a receptionist, and the overall experience curated for visitors are what truly resonate and linger in their memories long after their departure.
The Minister underscored the vital link between service quality and cultural representation in tourism, highlighting events such as PANAFEST, Emancipation Day, and the Black Star Experience as platforms for showcasing Ghana’s rich heritage. She envisioned the Eagles Hospitality School as a catalyst for a broader movement that celebrates Ghanaian culture, elevates the skills of the workforce, and enhances Ghana’s standing in the global tourism arena. She urged stakeholders to embrace this vision and to contribute to the transformation of the hospitality sector into a vibrant expression of Ghanaian identity and a beacon of excellence.
Stephen Asante, the Founder and Group CEO of Eagles Hospitality School, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stating that the institution was established to address the critical need for improved service standards in Ghana’s hospitality industry. He articulated a unique approach that emphasizes practical, hands-on experience, transforming hotels into classrooms and immersing students in real-world scenarios from the outset. This innovative model aims to cultivate a new generation of hospitality professionals equipped with the skills and experience necessary to deliver top-tier service, demonstrating that excellence is not a luxury to be imported but a standard that can be nurtured and cultivated within Ghana.
The launch of the Eagles Hospitality School garnered strong support from key industry players, including Labadi Beach Hotel, ASA Bank, and the Ghana Tourism Authority. Their presence signified a collective recognition of the growing demand for practical training and a higher level of professionalism within the hospitality sector. This collaborative endorsement underscored the shared commitment to enhancing service standards and elevating the overall tourism experience in Ghana.
The event marked not just the unveiling of a new educational institution, but the dawn of a new era for Ghana’s hospitality industry. It signaled a renewed focus on cultivating talent, embracing cultural identity, and striving for excellence in service delivery. This concerted effort, championed by the Minister and embraced by industry leaders, promises to transform Ghana’s tourism landscape and solidify its position as a premier destination on the global stage. The call to action resonated with a sense of urgency and a shared vision of a hospitality sector that embodies both the warmth of Ghanaian culture and the highest standards of professional excellence.
