The Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI), once a cornerstone of the nation’s hospitality sector, is set to reopen following an announcement by the Finance Minister. This move has reignited hope for the revitalization of an industry that has long struggled with systemic challenges. The institution, located in Chaguaramas, was abruptly closed in 2020, ostensibly due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, the closure was merely the culmination of years of financial neglect, administrative mismanagement, and dwindling government support. The TTHTI had been grappling with unpaid subventions totaling $13.17 million, and its registration with the Accreditation Council remained incomplete, raising concerns about the transferability of student records. Despite efforts by some students to transfer to the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, the abrupt shutdown left many in limbo. The closure also drew criticism from then-Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, though no concrete action was taken to address the issue. Over its 48-year history, the TTHTI had not only trained aspiring hospitality professionals but also offered popular short courses in culinary arts to individuals of all ages. Its graduates played a pivotal role in initiatives like the School Feeding Programme and went on to establish successful businesses in the hospitality sector. The Finance Minister’s pledge to reopen the institute must go beyond mere restoration; it demands a comprehensive modernization of the facility to align with the evolving needs of the industry. This revival could serve as a critical step in the broader agenda of economic diversification, ensuring that the hospitality sector remains a vital contributor to the nation’s economy.
