Kabale University has launched the Institute of Tourism and Hospitality.
According to Dr. Christine Ampumuza, a Specialist in Tourism and Hospitality and who doubles as the Head of Tourism and Hospitality at Kabale University, the creation of this Institute at the University will boost tourism and hospitality sector in Uganda.
The Institute will be able to train the kind of workforce that is relevant to the current work needs with in the industry which will cab the importation of tourism labor force from neighboring countries which has hindered the growth of tourism sector in Uganda, most times imported work force are not familiar with the available tourism resources which hinders quick development of the industry.
Creation of the Institute is aimed at putting in place a Center of Excellency with in the Great Lakes Region, following the fact that the University is strategically located in the rich in tourism destination Area.
This Institute’s main mission is to bring tourism closer to communities especially the tourism rich destination areas. According Dr. Ampumuza, they recently concluded an assessment in the Uganda’s main Tourism destination areas including Wanale in Mbale, Murchison falls in Masindi, Kibale National Park in Fort portal, and Queen Elizabeth National park in Kasese. And the Main challenge to these communities they are not empowered enough to tap in the rich tourism potentials surrounding them which if properly utilized would improve they income levels hence better lively hoods.
The establishment of the Institute of Tourism and Hospitality at Kabale University, with the introduction of Academic Programs like Masters of Tourism and Hospitality and Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management, is a significant step towards promoting the tourism sector in Uganda. Dr. Christine Ampumuza’s remarks during the press briefing highlighted the importance of knowledge dissemination and capacity building within the tourism industry, particularly focusing on communities hosting tourism sites.
Her observation regarding limited knowledge and awareness of the benefits of the tourism sector among the wider population, especially local communities, is crucial. Often, tourism can have a profound impact on local communities, but the benefits might not always be distributed equitably. By providing proper training and education, the university aims to equip actors within the industry, including the communities, with the necessary skills and understanding to maximize their advantages from the sector.
This initiative may involve various aspects, such as sustainable tourism practices, community-based tourism, and ways to enhance local participation in tourism-related businesses. By doing so, the university seeks to foster a more inclusive and responsible tourism industry that benefits not just a few, but the broader population.
Moreover, this endeavor could lead to better cooperation and collaboration between the tourism sector and local communities. By actively involving and empowering communities in tourism-related activities, there is a higher chance of preserving cultural heritage, protecting the environment, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach those who need it the most.
In the long run, the university’s efforts can contribute to the overall growth and development of the tourism sector in Uganda while creating a positive impact on local communities’ livelihoods and well-being. It’s an exciting development that shows the commitment of Kabale University to enhance the tourism industry and its potential to boost Uganda’s economy.
Dr. Christine Ampumuza noted the Institute currently offers Five Academic programmes that is One Master’s Degree, two Bachelors programs and two diplomas namely (Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Bachelors in Tourism and Hospitality Management, Bachelor of Catering and Hospitality, Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management and Diploma in Hotel Management) We want Kabale University to be the Leading Center of Excellence in the hands on –Training for Tourism and Hospitality in Uganda.
Students who will be studying these Academic programs will take advantage of the enormous tourism potential within the University’s proximity as natural learning sites to handle the practical component of the programs. There are designed for students looking forward to start a career in tourism-the world’s most economically resilient sector. The programs combine practical, tutorial and interactive lecture sessions that instill and stimulate students’ skills, knowledge and orientation towards appreciating the science and art of designing, managing and developing tourism and hospitality products and services in the international tourism and hospitality industry.
Dr. Ampumuza said,the revised programs emphasize problem-solving, work and field-based experiential learning, creativity and innovativeness. The programs are designed for students who are looking forward to undertake careers as managers, policymakers, entrepreneurs or consultants in the International Tourism, Hospitality & leisure industry.
Most importantly, the University is located at the confluence of Uganda’s major tourist destinations offering wonderful natural laboratories for field-based practical sessions. To this end, the incoming Institute has signed Memoranda of Understanding for practical sessions and internships with Bwindi, Mgahinga Conservation Area, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Hotels and reputable tour companies in Uganda. We are looking forward to collaborate with other National and International bodies like European Union to promote Tourism and Hospitality in this Industry. Uganda’s Tourism and Hospitality already contributes 9% to Uganda’s GDP, and generates approximately 605,500 jobs representing about 7.9% of Uganda’s employment (MTWH, 2017). It is therefore not surprising that, according to the second National Development Plan (NDPII).
In 2017 tourism and Hospitality continued to be the leading foreign exchange earner in the Ugandan Economy by generating USD 1,453 million and Vision 2040, the Ugandan government has identified tourism as one of the key drivers to transform Uganda from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country by 2040.
