Tourism and Hotel Management Department of College of Business and Economics’ slew of programs to celebrate 4th round of ‘Tourism Week’ beginning from 31st Dec to 3rd Jan 2016 at different locations in Arba Minch, left all mesmerized.

The event got kick-started with a mini-marathon followed by cultural pageant in the evening. Students draped in colorful attires signifying traditions of different regions danced to the songs and music right from Chamo Campus to Secha square.
College Dean, Mr Wondwosen Jerene, in his address lauding the efforts of students and staff in putting up a good show, said, tourism is the sector that strongly portrays the true cultural heritage of the nation to the larger world audience. And if the sector is properly harnessed can accrue huge revenue offering employments to youth.
Arba Minch town in particular, with its crocodile ranch, Nechsar Park, two huge lakes of the Rift Valley along with distinct ethnic diversity has immense tourism potential. Emphasizing AMU’s role in strengthening the sector, he said, it’s good opportunity for students to hone their practical skills.
In a fully charged-up atmosphere, evening program began with fashion show; both solo and pair segment saw tastefully dressed models walking the ramp. The show was interspersed with magic show, stand-up comedy and dance performances in traditional, modern style and vocal contest regaled the audience.
Panel discussion on ‘Challenges in Tourism and development in Arba Minch Town’ and ‘Opportunities for cooperation between Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Regional Tourism Bureau with AMU’ marked the second day; department teachers conducted the program.
In the afternoon female students played friendly soccer match followed by a brief question-answer session. Later, in a cultural show, students in gorgeous attire danced and reveled in.
The grand finale of the week held at Paradise Lodge where selected contestants put their best foot forward to win the glory in different segments of show. Traditional and modern dances in solo and group along with vocal performances set the tone for the day.
The first three winners of ‘Miss and Mr Tourism’ in male and female categories were awarded cash prizes of ETB 1000, 500 and 250. Winners of ‘Modern solo dance’ got ETB 300, 150, 100; traditional solo dance winners were given ETB 200, 150, 100. The first three winners of traditional group dance category bagged ETB 400, 350 and 200 respectively.
As a prelude, in the previous week, Tourism department has held Amharic film festival in which four films were featured to make students learn the traits of management.
The organizer, Mr Berihun Fitsum, said, while hosting such an event, the part of curriculum, cooperation from all quarters assumes great importance as it boosts the overall image of the university. He thanked his team for well-coordinated efforts.

(By Corporate Communication Directorate: Philips Joseph)