The Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) is working with Ambassador of Africa (AOA) to connect students from partner institutions with approved hospitality and tourism businesses in Ghana through a structured internship programme designed to give students practical, hands-on industry experience.
The 24-week programme provides students with an opportunity to gain workplace experience while helping businesses contribute to the development of future professionals in hospitality, tourism and related sectors. Each student is required to complete a minimum of 24 working weeks of full-time internship.
Two pathways for practical industry experience
The programme operates through two tracks: Operational Internship and Business Internship.
The Operational Internship focuses on hands-on experience in hotels and restaurants. At least 80% of the internship must involve operational duties, including kitchen operations, restaurant service, bar service, banqueting, reception, concierge and housekeeping.
The Business Internship introduces participants to the commercial and management functions that keep hospitality running. Giving interns practical experience in how successful hospitality businesses are managed and grown.
The Spring 2026 and Summer 2026 intakes are already under way, with the next intake scheduled for Spring 2027. The Business Internship track is expected to begin in early February 2027, while the Operational Internship track is scheduled to commence on 22 February 2027.
GHATOF bridges the gap between students and industry
As part of the partnership, GHATOF serves as an important link between AOA and businesses within Ghana’s hospitality and tourism industry. The Federation connects the programme with qualified businesses, encourages its members to host interns, supports the verification of prospective host organisations and maintains a database of approved businesses.
GHATOF also assists with industry introduction letters where required and supports stakeholder engagement on visa-related processes.
The placement process involves five key parties: the student, the host organisation, AOA as the internship facilitator, the student’s partner institution and GHATOF. Each party has a role to play in ensuring that placements are properly managed and that students receive the required practical experience.
Students are expected to complete their 24 working weeks, submit the required reports and evaluations, and ensure that all agreements are signed before beginning their placements. Host organisations must provide approved roles, comply with local labour laws, supervise interns and submit confirmation forms before the students’ final working day. The partner institution then assesses the placement and awards a Pass or Fail.
Supporting quality internship placements
Beyond connecting students to businesses, GHATOF receives regular updates from AOA on approved interns, placement progress, student welfare and any incidents that may arise. The Federation also participates in quarterly and end-of-cohort reviews, gathering feedback from employers and contributing to ongoing improvements in the programme.
Through this collaboration, GHATOF aims to strengthen the relationship between education and industry, create more opportunities for practical learning, and support Ghana’s position as a destination for quality hospitality and tourism internships.
Call for host businesses
As preparations begin for the Spring 2027 intake, GHATOF is inviting its member hotels, resorts, restaurants, tour operators and other tourism organisations to participate by hosting interns.
Businesses interested in supporting the programme can contact the Federation at info@ghatof.net for further information.
Source: Marketing & PR Desk, GHATOF