There are many departments across the country that can boast of practical training and real industry experience, but the Department of Hotel, Catering and Institutional Management (HCIM) at Accra Technical University is a cut above average when it comes to transforming classroom knowledge into real industry experience.
Built on the University’s strong foundation of practical and competency-based education, the Department continues to train students who are not only academically prepared but equipped with hands-on skills to excel in the competitive hospitality and tourism industry.
This unique approach to training was once again demonstrated when final-year Higher National Diploma (HND) students turned the forecourt of the University Auditorium into a colourful celebration of food, culture, and creativity during their final Food Production practical session.
From beautifully presented traditional meals to innovative food concepts inspired by Ghana’s rich culture, the Higher National Diploma (HND) Level 300 students demonstrated why practical training remains at the heart of ATU’s approach to producing skilled and industry-ready graduates.
The final Food Production practical session, held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, was organised under the theme, “Back to Our Roots: Zipping Up Our Culture,” with the topic “Re-imagining Ghanaian Classics Through Modern Culinary Techniques.”
The event provided a platform for students to tell Ghana’s food story in a refreshing way by transforming well-known local dishes into modern culinary experiences while maintaining the original taste, value, and identity that make Ghanaian food unique.
With carefully prepared dishes, creative plating, and the use of locally sourced ingredients, the students proved that Ghanaian cuisine has the potential to compete on both local and international stages when supported with creativity, innovation, and professional skills.
Beyond the food exhibition, the event signified the strong practical foundation offered by the Department of Hotel, Catering and Institutional Management, where students are not only taught theories but are trained to become entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovators in the growing hospitality and tourism sector.
Chairman for the occasion, Mr. Barimah Kwasi Asante, who is the general manager of Airport View Hotel commended the students for their creativity and commitment throughout their training. He encouraged them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and excellence as they step into the world of work. He further urged them to take advantage of the opportunities within the hospitality industry by creating businesses and becoming job creators.
The exhibition attracted lecturers, students, invited guests, and food lovers who experienced a wide variety of dishes prepared by the graduating students.
The Head of Department, Mrs. Linda Dede Graham commended the Department’s commitment to practical training and skills development. She encouraged the graduating students to exhibit professionalism, creativity, and excellence in their careers while expressing appreciation to the lecturers for their dedication to producing competent hospitality professionals.
Over the years, Accra Technical University’s HCIM Department has continued to provide hands-on training that prepares students for careers in food production, catering, hospitality management, entrepreneurship, and related industries. Through practical learning experiences such as the Food Production exhibition, the Department continues to nurture graduates with the confidence, creativity, and skills needed to meet industry demands.
Members can click on the link to access the event gallery https://directorateofpublicaffairsatu.pixieset.com/reimagingghanaianclassicsthroughmodernculinarytechniques