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The Chairman of the Planning Committee of the National Tourism Hospitality Exhibition Festival (NATHAFEST) 2015, Mr Goyimwole Kpodo, has expressed concern about inadequate professionals in the hospitality industry. Although the industry had vast opportunities which could be utilised to solve the increasing unemployment rate in the country, he said, the industry lacked the relevant know-how that could boost it. He noted that most individuals were ignorant about the relevance of the industry, hence the need for the youth to be sensitised to venture into the sector. Income earner Speaking at a forum which was part of activities to mark NATHAFEST 2015, in Accra last Thursday, Mr Kpodo said the upcoming festival sought to encourage the youth to take on careers in the tourism and hospitality industry. He said investors willing to help solve the youth unemployment problem had to take a critical look at the hospitality industry, since it could not be depleted, unlike other sectors. While urging industry players to adopt a national and practical approach to addressing hospitality issues, he called on the media to step up its effort at championing the tourism and hospitality campaign to improve economic growth. NATHAFEST 2015 This year�s NATHAFEST conference and career fair scheduled to take place from October 7 to October 9, has been planned to bring a critical mass of experts from the hospitality industry, corporate bodies, students and the general public, to focus on the role the tourism and hospitality sector plays in the country. It will also provide a platform for a discussion on how the industry can create jobs for young graduates. With support from MTN, Golden Beach Hotels, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the Ghana Tourism Authority, the fair is designed to create awareness and promote the growth of the sector. Enforce policies In his address, the Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF), Mr Caleb Kofie, called for the implementation of policies on the industry. For instance, he noted that many facilities were springing up without operation permits. Mr Kofie also reiterated the need for a national approach to developing the country�s tourism and hospitality industry.