Dean of International Programmes and Institutional Linkages at Ho Technical University, Dr. Paulina Adzoyi, has urged students in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management to start their entrepreneurial ventures while still in school. She emphasized that doing so can help them avoid youth unemployment after graduation. “Don’t wait for anybody to employ you after school, begin your self-employment journey now that you are here”.
![](https://www.voltapremier.htu.edu.gh/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WhatsApp-Image-2024-07-24-at-12.34.29-1-1024x682.jpeg)
During a one-day seminar for hospitality students on Thursday, July 18, 2024, Dr. Adzoyi spoke about her experiences as a student and lecturer, the challenges and solutions associated with entrepreneurship, and her interactions with students that led to some of them starting businesses while on campus.
She cited theft as one of the main obstacles to the entrepreneurship and tasked students to use technology and other creative methods to keep an eye on their investments. “Pilfering is a challenge. People will take food from you when you’re cooking to feed their families without asking permission.”
![](https://www.voltapremier.htu.edu.gh/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WhatsApp-Image-2024-07-24-at-12.34.27-1024x682.jpeg)
She also pointed to two graduates who began working for themselves after recognizing a need to be met, citing Makay Catering Services and Gertrude Mensah Special Wakye in Ho as examples.
Two Deputy Registrars, who also spoke, Mr. Edem Honu and
addressed professional opportunities, debunked myths and misconceptions in the hospitality and tourism industry, and provided guidance on choosing a career.
In order to gain the additional experience required to work in the sector, Ms. Adiasany encouraged students to take advantage of industry conferences, mentorship programs, tourism fairs and expos, online courses, networking events, internships, and apprenticeships.
The Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ho Technical University, in collaboration with the Institute of Hospitality, organized the career seminar under the theme “Hospitality and Tourism Career Prospects.”