The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) says it is important for students to acquire skills alongside their academic pursuit.

The national secretary of NBTE, Prof. Idris Bugaje, gave the charge in a goodwill message at the matriculation of 80 students of the Wavecrest College of Hospitality, Surulere, Lagos, on Saturday.

Mr Bugaje was represented by Bode Majiyagbe, director, South-West zonal office, NBTE.

Wavecrest College of Hospitality, Lagos, is Nigeria’s premier hospitality monotechnic.

Mr Bugaje told the new students of Wavecrest College of Hospitality, that acquiring technical skills alongside one’s academic pursuit would serve as an alternative (Plan B) especially when one enters the labour market.

According to him, the skill will boost their chances of general success even with their certificates after graduation.

“You need to strive to acquire other hand-ready technical skills as a plan B.

“What does this skill mean? It is not your paper qualification per say, but what you’re able to do.

“ Please, I want to charge you to, apart from your core course that you do here, think of other things that you can equally do and use your brain to interpret,” he said.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Registrar of the College, Veronica Isede, in her welcome address, described hospitality as more than just a field of study.

Mrs Isede encouraged the students to be focused, explaining that it entailed choosing what really mattered, embracing challenges, celebrating the victories and staying connected to passion for hospitality.

According to her, hospitality is a commitment to creating memorable experiences, fostering connections and exceeding expectations.

“Today marks the beginning of a transformative journey, not just for you, our students, but also for the entire community dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in hospitality education.

“As we welcome our new students, I would like to emphasise the significance of focus and navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of you.

“In the ever evolving world of hospitality, focus is not just a skill, but a driving principle, it’s a compass that will help you steer through the adversities of life.

“ Focus will help you channel your energy and talent towards planning your path whether it’s culinary art, hospitality management, or any other specialisation in this diverse field”.

She emphasised that with focus, the students would not only shape their academic achievements, but also define the mark left behind.

“As you step into Wavecrest, I invite you today, to focus on the opportunities that lie ahead of you, the friendship you will forge and the knowledge you will gain.

“ Cherish the blessings of the present and use them to shape a future filled with success and fulfillment,” she said.

Admonishing the girls, she said: “Hospitality demands attention to detail, dedication and unwavering commitment to excellence”.

The registrar noted that hospitality required the ability to juggle multiple tasks, while maintaining a keen awareness of your strengths and weaknesses.

“Focus becomes a secret ingredient that elevates you from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

“ As we embark on this academic journey, I urge you to embrace the power of focus. Let it be the force that empowers you through late night studies.

“Early morning workshops, practical exams and all the demands that are constantly being laid upon you.

“ Let it be the beacon that guides you in the art of balance, precession, creativity and building a solid foundation and successful career in hospitality,” she said.

Similarly, Rosana Forsuelo, Provost, Wavecrest College of Hospitality, charged the girls to live up to the highest of standards expected of them during the programme.

According to her, the hospitality industry is one that thrives on the principles of service, professionalism and attention to details, one that requires not just knowledge and skill, but also passion for creating memorable experiences for others.

She tasked the students to not only acquire the necessary expertise, but also develop a deep appreciation for the impact they could have on the lives of others.

She appreciated the support of ISHK Tolaram, Wonder Foundation, The Swiss Embassy, The Arise Foundation and numerous private individuals who had invested in the mission and vision of the college.

“Your contributions have empowered us to alleviate the quality of education we offer and have opened doors for countless hospitality professionals.

One of the matriculated students, Onitiju Samiat Onyinkosola, speaking on her interest in Wavecrest College of Hospitality, described her matriculation as a ‘dream come true’.

“My interest in the school is very big because of my long time dream of becoming either a waitress or a flight attendant.

“I had been looking for a hospitality school that could give me the best and input the best in me.

“So, it was a dream come true when I discovered Wavecrest Hospitality Collage online”, she said.

Ms Oyinkosola expressed hope of acquiring all the knowledge, mentorship and training that the college would offer.

She pledged to remain optimistic and resilient in facing any challenge she might encounter in the course of her training.

(NAN)