University College Aspira ceremoniously opened the first educational kitchen workshop, positioning Split as the educational gastro-centre of Croatia. The workshop is intended for the students of the first Gastronomy international study programme, as well as for those participating in professional development programmes and in education in the field of gastronomy.
Aspira has created numerous training programmes and professional workshops with the goal of strengthening the quality and competencies of people working in the hotel and hospitality industries. Some of these numerous programmes are specialised programmes for cooks specialising in Dalmatian, Mediterranean, national and international cuisines, as well as for those specialising in meals prepared with game, in catering, etc.
For the opening of the kitchen workshop, the students prepared a spectacular gastro experience in five courses together with chef Denis Galić, their mentor. The courses were paired with wines selected by the sommelier of the Matošević house of wine. Chefs and lecturers at Aspira Hrvoje Zirojević and Antun Nišević gave their support to the students at the opening.
Chef Galić said that the workshop was the ideal place for educating employees for the international market, in ideal conditions, using ideal equipment.
As Milivoj Jerkunica, the founder of University College Aspira, said: ‘This is a strategic move and a great day for University College Aspira. As we are aware of the shortcomings on the market for education in gastronomy, we have provided numerous specialisation programmes. Now, we have also provided a place to hold those programmes.’ With education like this, it is possible to significantly elevate the quality of those employed in gastronomy, which in turn elevates the quality of the entire tourism offer in Croatia.
Alen Jerkunica, Chairman of the Board of Aspira, pointed out the significance of opening the kitchen workshop for the students and participants of specialisation programmes. Not only will they be able to learn from the best professionals, they will also have the opportunity to work and cook at their own units, while following their mentors’ instructions via a screen. He also added how proud he was of the students, who really impressed with their readiness and who successfully answered this challenge, although being enrolled in the first semester of their studies. ‘The Gastronomy study programme is here for every gastronomy enthusiast. Its goal is to present all required knowledge in one place and to turn people into first-rate managers in the field of gastronomy.’
Ingredients that will be used in the kitchen workshop will be sourced in cooperation with family farms. These will be high-quality indigenous ingredients grown in controlled ways, characterised by rich flavours and aromas.
Through its educational programmes in the field of gastronomy, Aspira wishes to improve the quality of the entire gastro offer in tourism and to promote the national cuisine.