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LASUSTECH Student Wins Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach Grant

By Habeeb Ibrahim 

Juliet Nwankpa-Vincent Odinakachi, a student from the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management (THM) at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), has been honored with the prestigious Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach Grant. 

The award was presented at the 20th Akwaaba African Travel Market, the largest gathering of tourism professionals in West Africa, which took place from September 22-24, 2024, at Eko Hotels Convention Centre, Lagos.

Juliet, who is a 100-level student of the department, was recognized for her academic excellence and dedication to the tourism industry. The Fatima Garbati Tourism Outreach, named in honor of the late Fatima Garbati, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s tourism sector, aims to empower the next generation of tourism leaders across the country.

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at LASUSTECH, led by Head of Department Dr. Juliette Fashakin, was also commended for its role in nurturing leadership in the tourism and hospitality sectors. 
 Students with Dr. I.O.S. Yusuf and Mr. Husain, Lecturers from THM Department  


The department and Juliet won a grant of N200,000, which was equally divided between the department and Juliet, in recognition of their combined contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s tourism industry.

In an interview after the award presentation, Juliet expressed her delight and appreciation, stating, "Receiving the grant feels surreal, to be honest. If I was told a year ago that I would win a grant in my first year, I probably would not have believed it. I am immensely grateful and ecstatic." She stated that her motivation stems from her family’s sacrifices and support, which have spurred her to maintain an excellent academic record, with a CGPA of 4.68.

Discussing her passion, Juliet said, "The hospitality sector is where most of my passion lies. This grant has provided me with the financial support necessary to continue my educational journey, and I am deeply appreciative." She also noted the untapped potential of Nigeria’s tourism industry, advising aspiring tourism professionals to "find their niche in the industry and develop it."

Addressing one of the key challenges in Nigeria’s tourism sector, Juliet remarked, "Travel for pleasure and vacations are not common among the Nigerian middle class. Making it more affordable would be a significant step in addressing this issue. In the future, God willing, the hospitality services I offer will be affordable for the middle class."

Juliet also took the opportunity to thank her Head of Department, Dr. Juliette Fashakin, stating, "Mrs. Fashakin is one of the best women I have ever met. She supports and motivates my colleagues and me every step of the way and ensures that any problem we brought to her is solved. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity she has given me."

The award was presented during the Youth Tourism Bantaba segment of the Akwaaba Travel Market event, which also featured sessions such as the Calabar Carnival, medical tourism awareness, and a keynote address by Nigeria’s Minister for Tourism. 

Juliet and her colleagues had the opportunity to tour the event, visiting booths from international airlines, tour operators, and travel agencies, including MTN, the event's headline sponsor.

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