Empowering Youth and Advancing Gender Equality with Culinary Education

World-class culinary education is playing a crucial role in empowering youth and promoting gender equality. By providing diverse learning opportunities, it equips young individuals with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the culinary industry. This education not only creates career pathways but also encourages equal participation from all genders, fostering a more inclusive and balanced workforce. Through these initiatives, culinary education helps build a brighter, more equitable future for future generations.

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), established in 2008 by King Abdullah II of Jordan, aims to redefine culinary and hospitality education throughout the Middle East.

As a nonprofit organization, RACA is dedicated to empowering youth in Jordan and fostering gender equality within the culinary field, which has traditionally been male-dominated. RACA's mission supports the objectives of the King Abdullah II Fund for Development (KAFD), focusing on enhancing youth employability, empowering women, and nurturing local talent to strengthen Jordan’s tourism industry.

Throughout its journey, RACA has achieved notable milestones in both educational excellence and inclusivity. The academy is recognized for its high standards, with accreditation from the UNWTO TedQual Certification and membership in the EHL Network of Certified Schools.

Key Initiatives and Achievements:

A Comprehensive Curriculum: RACA offers a fully English-language program modeled after Swiss hospitality education. The curriculum, certified by EHL Group, emphasizes practical skills, leadership, and customer service, preparing students for global careers in hospitality.

Advancing Gender Equality: With 38% of its students being women, RACA actively champions gender equality by encouraging female students to take on leadership roles in hospitality, aiming to reduce the gender gap in an industry where women have historically been underrepresented.

Technical Vocational Training (TVT): To bridge industry skill gaps, RACA introduced vocational training programs based on Swiss standards, offering hands-on training that equips students with the practical expertise needed for entry-level positions.

Global Collaborations: Since 2018, RACA has partnered with EHL to uphold high educational standards and ensure its programs align with international best practices. Collaborations with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott, Accor Group, and IHG provide students with internship and employment opportunities, enhancing their real-world experience and professional connections.

Strong Employability and Global Opportunities: RACA graduates benefit from a 91% employability rate, securing roles both in Jordan and globally. The academy’s robust industry ties offer valuable job placement support, opening doors for international career prospects.

Recognition and Honors: RACA has earned global recognition for its excellence in education, including accreditation from EFQM and the World Association of Chefs’ Societies. The academy has also seen a 30% increase in applications since partnering with EHL, further solidifying its reputation as a leading culinary institution in Jordan.

Impact on Jordan’s Hospitality Industry:

RACA’s innovative approach to culinary education - emphasizing empowerment, quality, and inclusivity - has made a significant impact on Jordan’s hospitality industry. By equipping students with both technical and leadership skills, RACA is preparing a new generation of culinary professionals capable of driving innovation in the global hospitality sector.

The academy’s success reflects its original vision and commitment to advancing hospitality in Jordan. As RACA continues to grow, it shapes the future of both its students and the hospitality industry, contributing to economic growth and cultivating a culture of professionalism, inclusivity, and excellence.

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Source: hospitalityinsights‍