Basseterre, St. Kitts, August 30, 2018 (SKNIS): During orientation on August 29, new and returning students of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) Hospitality Division received words of encouragement from Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Lindsay Grant, who noted that upon completion they will not only become outstanding citizens, but will play a major role in the success of the tourism industry.
The Minister of Tourism emphasized that the tourism sector is the major driver of economic growth and social development. He added that the students will play an integral role in helping the industry further deliver measurable benefits to citizens and the economy at large.
“I’m always very heartened to see our young men and women positioning themselves to contribute to building a vibrant, sustainable and competitive tourism industry and I heartedly commend you for making this very important decision to further your studies, pursue your passion and enter this foundational stage of your career goal,” he said.
The minister said that collectively all must do their part to ensure that the sector thrives and “continues to deliver tangible benefits and revenue streams and even grater dividends for generations to come.”
“Indeed this is a thriving dynamic, vibrant, fascinating and rapidly evolving sector that requires a workforce, that’s you, that is committed, qualified and knowledgeable about our brand and about our identity,” said the minister. “It is a natural fit for people who are passionate, engaging and ready to go the extra mile to ensure excellence at every level of guest interface and interaction. In short, we want people like you among the growing thousands who are being employed and who are operating their own businesses in the sector year over year.”
The minister took the opportunity to congratulate CFBC hospitality student, Wycliffe Clarke, who is the recipient of the Range Development/ Six Senses Internship 2018 Programme. It will see him going on a six month rotation in the Seychelles.
“This shows the opportunities that this industry brings to all of us,” he said. “The partnership between the CFBC and Range Development and the Six Senses Resorts, which is slated to begin operations in St. Kitts this year, speaks volumes about the glorious possibilities for professional development that awaits you in the tourism industry and with this commitment and the right attitude you too can make your enrollment in this programme translate into a rewarding and exciting life long career in the service industry.”
Minister Grant said that it is imperative that the students use their youthfulness to set them apart in the highly competitive and people oriented sector.
“As you embark on this very important journey, to be certified in food preparation, mixology, housekeeping, whatever the area of your specialization, I implore you to use the boundless energy of youth and enthusiasm to sharpen your natural talents and master the professional and social skills necessary to consistently deliver excellence in the tourism and hospitality sector,” he said.
He added that he is confident that the cohort, within the next two years of their academic career, is up to the task of intense preparation after which they will be “fully equipped to deliver unique, memorable, stimulating experiences that will have all our guests following their hearts to St. Kitts.”
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