Seven members of the Board of Directors of the École des Métiers de l’Hôtellerie, du Tourisme et de la Restauration (EMTHR) were installed on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. Dr. Sèdami Medegan Fagla, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in charge of Technical Training, performed the installation ceremony in Bénin. The formal installation of these seven individuals marks a significant step in the administrative consolidation of the institution, ensuring that the oversight body is fully functional and capable of executing its governance responsibilities.
During the event, Dr. Sèdami Medegan Fagla emphasized the strategic importance of the sector to the national economy. "Le Tourisme, l’Hôtellerie et la Restauration sont des secteurs prioritaires et porteurs d’avenir pour notre jeunesse et notre pays. Ils exigent des professionnels formés aux meilleurs standards de service," she stated. The newly appointed board assumes its oversight duties immediately to guide the institution’s training programs and professional standards for the hospitality industry. By providing this high-level supervision, the board aims to enhance the quality of instruction and the overall efficacy of the school’s academic mission.
Appointment of Board Members
President Romuald Wadagni authorized the selection of these board members through an official decree. This legal instrument formalizes the governance structure of the École des Métiers de l’Hôtellerie, du Tourisme et de la Restauration (EMTHR) and establishes the mandate for the incoming leadership team to oversee institutional operations. The decree, signed by President Romuald Wadagni, provides the necessary legal framework for the board members to exercise their authority and fulfill their administrative obligations to the state and the institution.
Francine Aissi Houangni assumed the position of head of the Board of Directors upon the installation of the new body. She leads the seven-member group responsible for directing the strategic path of the institution. Her duties involve coordinating the board’s oversight of educational policies and ensuring the school maintains alignment with its regulatory requirements. As the designated head of the Board of Directors, Francine Aissi Houangni will work closely with the administration to oversee the implementation of policies that support the growth and development of the school’s training objectives.
The EMTHR operates as an institution specialized in training for hospitality, tourism, and catering professions. It serves as a central hub for vocational development, preparing students for specific roles within these sectors. The school integrates practical curriculum requirements with technical instruction to address the needs of the industry in Bénin. By focusing on these specific disciplines, the institution provides structured pathways for individuals seeking to enter the service economy. The specialization of the EMTHR ensures that students receive targeted education that is directly relevant to the demands of the hospitality, tourism, and catering sectors, thereby fostering a skilled workforce capable of meeting the rigorous expectations of the service industry. The board’s role is to ensure these training standards remain consistent with national goals.
