Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ben Q. Honyenuga, has commended the two students from the Hospitality and Tourism Department for winning the second edition of the Big Chef Tertiary cooking reality TV competition, organized by JoyPrime TV.
The team beat off stiff competition from host, Kumasi, as well as Koforidua and Takoradi technical universities to retain the Big Chef Tertiary title after weeks of culinary contest.
At a welcome ceremony held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Nkulenu restaurant, attended by the University’s management, faculty, and students, the VC praised the students for their hard work and resilience.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended the Department for their exceptional mentorship and dedication to student success. “This achievement reflects HTU’s vision to provide quality education and foster innovation,” he remarked.
He expressed gratitude to all staff, lecturers, and management for their support throughout the competition, emphasising the importance of such competitions in enhancing students’ skills and confidence, preparing them for future challenges. As a token of appreciation, he awarded the winners a one-year scholarship.
The VC also used the opportunity to announce HTU’s ranking as the 5th best university in Ghana, 1st in student engagement, and 44th in Africa, per the 2024 Sub-Saharan African University Rankings by Times Higher Education.
The winners, Salifu Sheriffa (Level 300) and Addoh King Jones (Level 200), shared their inspiring journey, from the initial phase to the grand finale. Despite facing challenges, they displayed grit and determination.
Their prize package, including:
- A cash prize of GHS 20,000
- A four-burner stove
- A tabletop refrigerator
- A cooker
- Citation of honor
- Certificates of participation
- Culinary items, including spices and Indomie products from sponsors
The Dean of the Faculty of Applied Social Sciences, Prof. Emmanuel Letsyo, and the Head of Department, Dr. Otilia Adzinyo, expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and management for their support and encouragement.
Present at the ceremony were the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Christopher Mensah, Director of Finance, Mr. Kwame Owusu, Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Elizabeth Obinnim, and Ag. Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Emmanuel Selase, among other senior officials.
