ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. Launches Diploma Programs in Hospitality and Tourism, Offering Globally Recognized Qualifications

ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. (ACI), the approved teaching centre in Guyana recognized by the Confederation of Tourism and Hospitality in the UK and the National Accreditation Council of Guyana, has proudly launched the highly anticipated Diploma Programs in Hospitality and Tourism. The official launch event took place on June 6, 2023, at the prestigious Guyana Marriott Hotel in the presence of dignitaries and sponsors; the Guyana Marriott Hotel, the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). ACI is thrilled to introduce these advanced diploma programs, which aim to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the thriving fields of hospitality and tourism. With its commitment to offering globally recognized qualifications, ACI has partnered with renowned accreditation bodies to ensure that students receive certifications that are recognized and respected worldwide. Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Chairman of ACI, emphasised that natural wonders are a valuable asset and emphasizes the importance of a skilled workforce for delivering exceptional experiences.The CTH Tourism and Hospitality programs were introduced as a groundbreaking initiative; aimed at equipping individuals with the necessary expertise to excel in the industry. It is expected to create employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, and drive innovation within the burgeoning sector. With this, Dr. Doerga assured that Guyana is sending a resolute message that it is ready to take its place on the global tourism stage. In concurrence, Coach Keon Smith, Coaching and Training Director, highlighted the need for tourism professionals in the market, and the carved pathway to success with the diploma programmes. In that, he expressed innovation is part of the DNA of Guyanese. Mr. Steve Beckworth, CTH Director of Marketing and Business Development spoke of employability of graduates from the Levels 3 and 4 Diploma Programmes, as the tourism sector values the importance of skilled professionals in driving its resurgence. Dr. Anand Arulsamy, Academic Director of Tourism and Hospitality at ACI, acknowledged the rapid growth and transformation of the hospitality and tourism industry, along with the increasing demand for skilled human resources. Dr. Arulsamy highlighted CTH's global reputation for exceptional standards in hospitality and tourism education, with over 40 years of experience and accreditation from more than 150 institutions worldwide, benefiting over 30,000 graduates. Mr. Eduardo Reple, General Manager of the Guyana Marriott Hotel, acknowledged the impact of the pandemic and urged Guyanese to reflect on the values that matter most, particularly the influential youth generation that drives change; “We need to plant the seeds of tourism into the mindset of children and they will slowly be able to influence their parents and provoke the necessary change.” Following, Mr. Ramsay Ali, President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association, reiterated the advent of oil and gas and that the introduction of the hospitality and tourism programmes is timely, upon which employability was referenced as a vital component of the sector. Mr. Harrinand Persaud, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana, spoke of the importance of upskilling existing professionals and nurturing their talent in the tourism and hospitality industry. By doing so, aspiring candidates can meet the industry's demand while raising the standards of service delivery in Guyana. “Being Guyanese is all we need,” said Hon. Minister Oneidge Walrond-Allicock, Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. She drew comparisons to Costa Rica, a country with 70 years of tourism experience, and expressed interest in improving interior runways, increasing airlift, enhancing road infrastructure (especially the connection to Brazil), and attracting internationally branded hotels. The arrival of FlyCana to Guyana and the flights from British Airways were cited as direct results of public sector intervention. The Minister expressed gratitude to ACI for their contribution in providing the tourism product experience, enabling authentic experiences through ACI's programs. In recognition of the achievements of Visit Rupununi and its president, Ms. Melanie McTurk, the NGO was awarded various benefits, including CEO coaching, team training, professional networking opportunities, a full-page feature in the Who's Who publication, and a coveted spot in the first cohort of ACI's Hospitality and Tourism program. This marked the momentous occasion, through which ACI has for over seven years, supported the growth of businesses, and now more actively in the evolving tourism landscape. During the event, significant progress was made in strengthening collaboration within the tourism industry as Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were signed among the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), and prominent hospitality establishments, including Atlantic Hotel Inc. (trading as Guyana Marriott Hotel) and Ramada Princess Georgetown Hotel. These MOUs signify a commitment to joint efforts in promoting tourism, improving industry standards, and fostering a mutually beneficial partnership among key stakeholders. To sign up for the Diploma Programs in Hospitality and Tourism, visit https://actioninvest.org/aci-college-cth-level-3/. For more information about ACI and programs, please visit https://actioninvest.org/ or contact info@actioninvest.org.

Source(Amrita Naraine, Lead Researcher and Writer - ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. , Image: Aaliyah Allicock, Media Content Officer - ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc. )

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6 Jun 2023 03:00 | by anaraine

| Education and Training