Players in the tourism sector are unhappy with the quality of the human resource produced from different institutions in Uganda and East Africa at large.
Uganda is one the countries investing heavily in the tourism sector with travel companies, lodges and hotels coming up to satisfy the growing demand. However, the graduates milling out of schools dedicated to the hospitality industry are far from qualified to meet the demands of the sector.
Anthony Chege, the country manager Serena Hotel Kampala, says the East African region lacks proper training institutions “The curriculum in the schools does not align with the industry. There many developments in the industry but adaptions is still a challenge. “
The executive director of Uganda Tourism Board Stephen Asiimwe says government will work with different institutions so that the workers meet international standards.
To bridge this gap Victoria University will begin to offer in-depth research oriented value addition to the hospitality and leisure industry in East Africa partnering with Speke group of hotels
Dr. Krishna N. Sharma, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University says the university will make sure that the students get the required skills for the jobs.
The partnership will see Speke Group of Hotels provide practical space upon which Victoria University students will easily and seamlessly gain industrial insights that could eventually result into soft skills and employment opportunity as well. This was revealed by Greg Petzer, general manager Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The students will be able to develop their skills and build their networks, thereby giving them a competitive edge and turning them into formidable managers and well-grounded job creators.
On the other hand, Speke Group of Hotels will realize continuous flow of specialized labor force given that the students are pursuing Diploma and Bachelor Degrees in Tourism and Hospitality Management.
