In a bold step to blend academic knowledge with practical industry exposure, 110 tourism students from the Tourism Department of Milton Margai Technical University, Brookfields campus, visited the Freetown International Airport, as part of their practical learning in Tourism and Hospitality Management.
Guided by five lecturers, the students were given exclusive access to the various operational units of the airport, gaining firsthand experience in key areas such as ticketing and reservations, airport and cargo operations, customer service, and security procedures. The visit was designed to expose students to real-world applications of what they learn in class, strengthening their understanding of how tourism and airport systems function together to deliver quality service.
“This visit is more than just an academic requirement; it is an essential part of shaping industry-ready professionals who understand the complexity and coordination required in modern tourism operations,” said Mrs. BubuBright, one of the lecturers tourism department. “Students were able to observe and ask questions about the entire passenger journey from check-in and security checks to baggage handling and aircraft boarding procedures.”
The students also engaged with airport staff and professionals across departments, including customer relations, logistics, immigration, and aviation security, gaining firsthand knowledge of the daily challenges and details of ensuring smooth passenger and cargo operations. Many expressed excitements about seeing their classroom studies come alive in a professional environment. This comprehensive exposure helped highlight the crucial role airport operations play in shaping the traveller’s experience, an important pillar in tourism development.
“This kind of exposure is invaluable for our students,” said Mr. Sombie, Head of Department Tourism, noting that the opportunity provides practical grounding in their study modules. “Understanding how theory plays out in real operational settings helps educational engagements be seen as critical steps toward producing industry-ready graduates poised to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth.”
Airport authorities welcomed the initiative and expressed their interest in supporting educational visits that contribute to the growth of Sierra Leone’s tourism industry. “We are proud to host the next generation of tourism professionals,” Mr. Abubakarr Kamara, head of the security personnel from the airport management, stated. “Practical engagements like these ensure a better-prepared workforce for the future of our hospitality and aviation sectors.”
This experience is expected to inspire and prepare students for future roles within tourism, aviation, and customer service industries, sectors vital to Sierra Leone’s economic diversification and global image, and strengthen its tourism sector.
Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 23rd, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
