Tourism experts call for effective use of social media to promote sector
Speaking at the celebrations of World Tourism Day, organised by MUBS students and staff, Mr Herbert Byaruhanga, former president of COUTA, highlighted the importance of embracing tourism.
He stressed the need for the effective use of social media to promote Uganda's tourism industry.
The event attracted various players in the tourism sector, with participation from over 15 universities.
Mr. Byaruhanga also encouraged individuals to engage in tourism-related businesses such as birding, and building lodges and hotels for tourists.
Jean Byamugisha, CEO of the Uganda Hotel Owners Association, noted that the tourism conference provided a platform for offering career guidance to students and others.
She cited key skills like communication, hospitality, customer care, and catering as essential components of the industry.
The Head of the Tourism Department at MUBS, Dr Celestine Katongole, explained that the university decided to celebrate World Tourism Day to engage students from various universities, preparing them for the future by teaching them how to start their own businesses in tourism while expanding their knowledge.
“I urge the youth to acquire skills first, then start businesses in the tourism industry to tackle the unemployment issue in Uganda,” Dr. Katongole advised.
He added that many key players in the industry, such as tour guides, hotel managers, hotel owners, and photographers like Ssenyonyi Derrick, had been involved in the conference, hoping it would have a positive impact on the students.
Emau Paul, a second-year student of Travel and Tourism Management at MUBS, shared that the conference had significantly sharpened his skills, giving him a brighter outlook for his future. He had received valuable training in handling clients, particularly in attitude and anger management.
"We have learned how to control anger, manage our attitudes, and provide excellent customer care, which will benefit us in the future," Emau said.
