Shaping Jordan’s Culinary Future Through Youth Empowerment

Did you know that Jordan’s hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing in the Middle East, with a projected annual growth rate of over 5%? In the heart of this thriving sector is the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), a pioneering institution driving excellence in culinary education.

Established in 2008, RACA has not only led the way in developing a skilled workforce, but also in empowering youth and fostering gender equality within the industry. As an EHL Certified School, RACA offers a range of programs, from Bachelor’s degrees to vocational courses, focusing on academic excellence and hands-on training. Its comprehensive approach equips students with the practical skills and mindset necessary to meet the evolving demands of the hospitality sector, both locally and regionally.

Join us as we explore how RACA is shaping Jordan’s culinary future and leaving a significant mark on the country’s hospitality and culinary arts landscape.

Meet Chef Jacques Rossel

Leading the academy is Director Jacques Rossel, a seasoned chef with over three decades of experience from five-star hotels across Switzerland, the Middle East, and Africa. Chef Rossel joined RACA in 2014, bringing his extensive expertise and passion for education to the role. He oversees the day-to-day management of the institution, ensuring its alignment with RACA’s strategic goals and values. His mission at RACA has been clear: to foster the next generation of Jordanian culinary talents.

“Witnessing young people grow and develop a passion for an industry I have always loved, and seeing them graduate at the end of their studies, is such a reward,” says Chef Rossel.

His passion for teaching mirrors RACA’s broader commitment to driving excellence in Jordan’s hospitality sector.

RACA has been a member of the EHL Network of Certified Schools since 2018 and achieved Certified status in 2022. This recognition underscores RACA’s dedication to academic excellence and practical skill development, empowering students to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality.

“Becoming a certified member of the network of EHL-certified schools was a huge achievement,” notes Chef Rossel. “Especially significant was RACA’s transformation from a Community College offering a two-year Diploma in Culinary Arts to a Technical University College, now able to offer a BA in F&B Management.”

Jordan’s Hospitality Industry: Growth and Opportunities

Jordan’s hospitality industry is a key driver of its economy, contributing $5.8 billion to the GDP in 2021, accounting for 19.3% of the country’s total economic output. As international tourism in Jordan continues to rebound post-pandemic—especially with destinations like Petra and Wadi Rum gaining popularity—the demand for skilled culinary professionals has surged.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector is projected to grow by 8.4% annually over the next decade.

RACA’s mission aligns with these growth trends by equipping young Jordanians with world-class training. As Chef Rossel notes, “RACA’s duty is to prepare its students for this vibrant and ever-changing industry and make them ready for new opportunities.”

The Evolution of Jordan’s Culinary Landscape

In recent years, Jordan’s culinary landscape has become increasingly international, driven by its growing tourism and expatriate population.

As Chef Rossel highlights, “Jordan’s culinary landscape has become more international, with many outlets offering a variety of cuisines to please the increasingly well-travelled Jordanian palate.”

Furthermore, the rise of cloud kitchens has added a new dimension to the market, particularly in Amman, where online food delivery has seen exponential growth since the COVID-19 pandemic.

RACA plays a pivotal role in preparing its students for this evolving environment, with programs that blend traditional Jordanian cuisine with global culinary trends.

Chef Rossel believes that this balance is essential for students: “The program offers a comprehensive view of the culinary world, including local cuisine. Students also learn to appreciate their responsibilities in promoting sustainability through the use of locally sourced ingredients.”

Bridging the Skills Gap: RACA’s Role in Reducing Youth Unemployment

One of the greatest challenges Jordan faces is its youth unemployment rate, which stood at 48.5% in 2021, among the highest in the region. RACA directly addresses this challenge by providing high-quality vocational training that increases employability in both Jordan and the broader Middle East.

In fact, graduates of RACA are in high demand, with many finding opportunities in neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, where rapid hospitality development is driving the need for skilled chefs and hospitality managers.

“RACA must support the efforts of the Jordanian government in combating unemployment and poverty among youth,” Chef Rossel asserts.

With the support of EHL Education Consulting experts, RACA’s curriculum—academically certified by the EHL Group through its prestigious certification scheme—ensures that graduates are equipped not only with technical skills but also with leadership and management qualities, positioning them to compete successfully in the international job market.

Empowering Women in Culinary Arts

RACA is also making strides in promoting gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated industry. According to the World Bank, only 14% of Jordanian women are active in the workforce, a statistic that RACA is working to improve within the hospitality sector. One of RACA’s notable success stories involves a young female graduate who, after a successful stint abroad, returned to Jordan to open her own restaurant.

“She has become an inspiration for female chefs who still need empowerment in our industry, especially in the Middle East,” says Chef Rossel.

By creating an inclusive environment and encouraging female participation, RACA is fostering culinary talent and addressing broader societal challenges related to gender inequality.

A Vision for the Future: RACA’s Long-Term Goals

Looking ahead, RACA aims to continue its leadership role in shaping Jordan’s culinary landscape. Chef Rossel envisions the academy playing a larger role in promoting vocational education, combating unemployment, and empowering women.

“The Jordanian government is promoting vocational education and lifelong learning more than ever. I believe RACA has the opportunity to pave the way for a new vocational identity in the food and beverage sector,” he says.

With Jordan’s tourism industry set to expand and the government prioritizing job creation in high-demand sectors, RACA is positioned to be a key player in the country’s economic future.

RACA’s journey over the past 15 years has been marked by excellence, innovation, and a commitment to empowering Jordan’s youth. As the country’s culinary landscape evolves, so too does RACA’s role in preparing the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals. Under Chef Jacques Rossel’s leadership, the academy remains dedicated to shaping a brighter future for Jordan’s hospitality industry—one where tradition meets innovation, and where passion meets opportunity.

Mario Sides Dura – Certification Project Manager

This article originally appeared on EHL Insights.