Cabo Verde Hospitality School Trains Over 1,000 Students Annually, Boasting 85% Employability

Aldina Delgado, PCA of the EHTCV (Hospitality and Tourism School of Cabo Verde), stated that the institution trains over 1,000 students annually, with figures ranging from 1,300 to 1,400 graduates in both initial and continuous training programs. Initial training targets young job seekers, while continuous training caters to active professionals needing to update their skills. The school has trained over 12,000 young people since 2011 and will officially mark 15 years of operation on July 19th, having opened its doors on March 19th. Delgado emphasized that the school's high employability rate, exceeding 85%, is a testament to its quality training, with approximately 75% of the curriculum being practical. Many graduates secure employment at their internship sites due to high demand and good performance, while others find opportunities elsewhere in the sector. Delgado asserted that in Cabo Verde's hospitality and tourism sector, individuals who complete training are only unemployed if they lack interest. The EHTCV tracks graduates through their internships, providing certificates and maintaining a database for potential job matching when the private sector requests candidates. While acknowledging that some trained professionals emigrate, Delgado noted that a study indicated only 28% of professionally trained youth aspire to leave Cabo Verde, contrasting with broader emigration desires. She highlighted that the school is designed to international standards, equipping graduates with skills comparable to professionals globally, and that its practical, integrated training model, including a public pedagogical restaurant, prepares students for real-world work environments. Delgado also pointed out that while the EHTCV prioritizes the national market, it takes pride in its graduates' ability to work internationally. She believes the private sector needs to better value these skilled professionals to retain them within Cabo Verde, recognizing their significant contribution to the country's tourism sector qualification.