Graduates of the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (THTI) have been encouraged to be part of the transformation of the island’s economy during their commencement ceremony at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on Thursday.
The students completed studies in Tourism, Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Food and Beverage Operations and were reminded by THA Secretary of Education, Skills and Innovation, Orlando Kerr, that their academic achievement must produce more than well-qualified and skilled workers.
“Some of you must become employers. Some of you must become owners. Some of you must become investors and some of you must become people sitting on the other side of the table creating opportunities for the next generation.”
This idea was reinforced by Executive Director of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited, Alicia Edwards. She noted that it is important for the graduates to realise that they are the catalysts for Tobago’s economic development.
“One of the things that has to happen, at the Tobago level and at the national level, is that we must not just see ourselves as beneficiaries of development but as active participants and drivers of development.”
While many of the graduates seek further development internationally, Secretary Kerr urged them to remember their roots, and bring their international skill set back to Tobago.
“As Secretary of Education, Skills and Innovation, that is ultimately what I want our education system to produce: globally competitive Tobagonians, who are locally committed people capable of functioning anywhere in the world but never lose their sense of duty to this island.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Edwards reminded the students to maintain high standards of professionalism.
“Professionalism is arriving on time when nobody is checking. Professionalism is preparing properly for every single assignment that you have. Professionalism is treating every customer with respect. Professionalism is keeping your word.”
THTI is currently the only accredited tourism institute in the country.