The academic partnership between Ho Technical University (HTU) and the Supply Application School (SAS) of the Naval Training Command yielded its first success on Thursday, December 14, 2023, with the graduation of 17 naval personnel who completed an Advanced Certificate Cook Steward course.
The group, comprising 14 females and three males, underwent a rigorous 13-week coursework under the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management of the University.
Addressing the graduation ceremony at the NAVTRAC base at Nutekpor, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ben Honyenuga commended the students for their dedication during the course despite their tight schedule. He urged them to embrace continuous learning to prepare them for higher duties within and outside the armed forces.
The VC commended the Naval Training Command for trusting the University to enhance the skills of their personnel through training and certification, as he assured them of HTU’s commitment to quality training, research, and innovation.
He was optimistic that the collaboration will spur further successes for the two institutions, as it marks a collective march towards excellence.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), NAVTRAC, Commodore Bright Atiayao underscored the vital role of Cook Stewards in ensuring Navy operational readiness. He praised the joint effort of the University and Supply Application School in equipping personnel with essential skills for peak performance at sea, commending the University’s expertise and academic rigor.
Commodore Atiayao encouraged the sailors to embrace future challenges, leveraging the personal and professional growth gained from the course, and commended Officers, Instructors, and Supporting Staff for their sacrifices.
Able Seaman Class 1, Ansah Solomon Ackon, received the Best Graduating Student award during the brief but colorful ceremony, graced by the Director of Naval Training, Capt(GN) Danies Fiifi Eghan, representing the Chief of Naval Staff.
Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor were the Registrar, Dr. Christopher Amehoe, Ag. Director of Academic Affairs, Mr. Isaac Meyir, Ag. Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Emmanuel Selase, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Dr. John Coker Ayimah, HoD of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Madam Otilia Adzinyo, and Dr. Vincent Asimah from the same Department.