By Audrey Raymonda John
On May 15, 2024, Director of Studies Patrick Macauley addressed Central Base Journalists Sierra Leone (CBJ-SL) to discuss the recent graduation ceremony and ongoing challenges at the College of Tourism and Travel Studies. The event, held at the institution’s conference room on Walpole Street, celebrated the graduation of 44 students on April 21, 2024.
Director Macauley highlighted the college’s three main departments: Air Travel Management, Hospitality Management, and Business and Administration Management. The Air Travel Management department, the largest of the three, saw 35 students graduate last month. Macauley emphasized the vital role the college plays in empowering middle-level manpower in the tourism industry, providing essential training and skills to students who now serve in various airlines and travel agencies.
Established between 2000 and 2001, immediately after the civil war, the College of Tourism and Travel Studies faced numerous financial challenges in its early years. Despite these obstacles, the institution has successfully produced many specialists who are now employed by reputable airline agencies. However, Macauley pointed out that as a privately owned institution, the college does not receive government subsidies, which continues to strain its financial resources.
In his appeal to the central government, Macauley requested financial support to sustain the college’s operations and enable it to train and recruit more graduates for the benefit of the industry and the nation. He also praised the college’s strong working relationship with Fourah Bay College (FBC) and other higher learning institutions, noting that applicants must possess at least a diploma certificate in education or a clean WASSCE result, along with other important documents.
Macauley reaffirmed the college’s commitment to welcoming both local and international students, stating that the institution is always open to new applicants. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Basic Education for granting the college its initial accreditation and pledged continued loyalty and support to the Government of Sierra Leone for creating a conducive environment for education and training in the tourism sector.