CEDP’s $12M Investment Transforms Uganda’s Hospitality Training

Ten years ago, the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project (CEDP) began an ambitious effort to revitalize Uganda’s economy through targeted investments in vital sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and small business development.

Today, the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) in Jinja stands as a powerful example of CEDP’s influence, evolving from modest origins into a prestigious center of excellence, training professionals for Uganda’s thriving tourism and hospitality industries.

UHTTI’s Transformation: A Major Leap in Uganda’s Hospitality Education

Initially established as a basic training facility, UHTTI has been dramatically modernised through CEDP’s $12 million funding, becoming Uganda’s first three-star training hotel with cutting-edge facilities.

What was once a simple setup now features high-end equipment and practical training resources, providing students with experiences that meet international standards.

UHTTI Principal Richard Kawere has overseen this transformation, which now includes a three-star training hotel, industry-grade kitchens, contemporary classrooms, and advanced computer labs.

Richard Kawere, Principal - UHTTI

“Our facilities now compare to those of top international institutes. With high-end kitchen equipment and fully equipped hotel rooms, our students gain the skills needed to excel in high-level hospitality and tourism roles. This investment has also addressed a significant skills gap that previously limited the quality of our graduates.”

Modernised Learning Tools and Curriculum

CEDP’s support has extended beyond physical upgrades, supplying UHTTI with crucial learning tools, such as a mobile catering van for offsite training and a dedicated bus for tourism field trips.

The revamped curriculum now emphasises hands-on learning, preparing students for real-world scenarios in catering, hotel management, tourism, and customer service.

Kawere on Practical Training

“Our mobile catering van is groundbreaking for culinary students, giving them real-world experience in outdoor catering. Our tourism bus also supports field trips, helping students gain an understanding of local tourism beyond classroom lectures.”

Furthermore, UHTTI’s enhancements include modern amenities that create an inclusive learning environment, from updated classrooms and conference facilities to new IT infrastructure, equipping students with advanced tools aligned with industry needs.

Preparing Students for the Hospitality Industry

With the improved infrastructure and curriculum, UHTTI graduates are now more prepared and confident as they enter the workforce.

Alumni from UHTTI are highly sought after throughout East Africa, often securing positions in prestigious hotels before completing their studies.

With hands-on training and access to top-notch facilities, UHTTI is now recognised as a premier institution for hospitality training.

Principal Kawere on Job Placement Success

“Our graduates are finding positions in top-tier hotels and tourism companies across East Africa. The skills they gain here equip them to perform at a high standard right from the start, addressing a significant quality and staffing gap in the region.”

Setting a New Standard in East African Hospitality Education

CEDP’s support has established UHTTI as a leader in tourism and hospitality education in the region. Ongoing developments include constructing a large conference hall, renovating hotel rooms, and outfitting computer labs with the latest technology.

Combining rigorous training, practical exposure, and top-tier facilities, UHTTI is now setting a high standard for hospitality education across East Africa.

Students’ Perspective

“The hands-on training here is unmatched. From pastry preparation to guest relations, we’re equipped with everything needed to succeed in the industry,” shared one student, underscoring how the improvements have enhanced career readiness.

CEDP’s Vision for Uganda’s Tourism Future

The $12 million investment in UHTTI is part of CEDP’s broader vision for Uganda’s tourism sector. This project has not only modernised the institute but also strengthened Uganda’s potential as a top destination for hospitality and tourism.

By supporting advanced training facilities and skill-focused programs, CEDP has created a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to lead Uganda’s growing tourism sector.

Kawere on Long-Term Impact

“CEDP’s support has been invaluable. This transformation positions UHTTI as a center of excellence, not only for Uganda but for all of East Africa. The success of our graduates highlights the effectiveness of this project and its potential to shape the future of Uganda’s tourism industry.”