The Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC) will host the second edition of the Hospitality Skills Challenge from September 9 to 11, bringing together more than 10 universities, technical institutes and specialised hospitality colleges for a three-day competition aimed at promoting practical skills and innovation in Uganda’s hospitality sector.
Held under the theme “Fusion of Culture,” the event is expected to attract hundreds of hospitality students, trainers, industry professionals and tourism stakeholders from Uganda and the wider East African region.
The competition will feature practical disciplines including cookery, rooms division, restaurant service, mixology and barista, pastry and bakery. Judges from the hospitality industry will assess participants on technical competence, creativity, professionalism and adherence to industry standards.
HTTC Principal Richard Kawere said the competition is intended to bridge the gap between classroom training and workplace demands by exposing students to practical industry standards.
“This challenge is not merely a competition; it is a learning experience that prepares students for the demands of the global hospitality industry,” Kawere said.
More than 10 institutions are expected to field teams of students who have undergone months of preparation for the competition.
Organisers say the event will also provide participants with opportunities to interact with hotel managers, chefs, tourism entrepreneurs and recruiters, potentially opening avenues for professional networking and employment.
African chefs to conduct masterclasses
Ten visiting chefs from different African countries are expected to be among the key attractions at this year’s event.
The chefs will conduct live culinary demonstrations and masterclasses focusing on African cuisines, contemporary cooking techniques, food presentation and sustainable gastronomy.
The sessions will also explore ways of transforming indigenous ingredients and cultural traditions into contemporary dining experiences, in line with the event’s theme of promoting Africa’s culinary heritage.
Organisers say the participation of chefs from across the continent will give students an opportunity to gain practical knowledge and expose the competition to a wider regional audience.
Focus on culture and tourism
The “Fusion of Culture” theme is intended to highlight the role of hospitality, food and tourism in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
Participating institutions will be encouraged to incorporate cultural elements into menus, table settings, beverage creation and guest experiences while demonstrating innovation and professional service.
The event will also feature exhibitions showcasing traditional cuisines, beverage concepts and hospitality practices inspired by African cultures.
HTTC Partnerships and Collaboration Officer Alleyn Zalwango said the competition supports Uganda’s efforts to develop tourism through investment in skilled human resources.
“As Uganda’s only government-owned hospitality training institution, HTTC has continued to strengthen practical education through partnerships with industry, international certification bodies and tourism stakeholders,” Zalwango said.
She said the challenge is aligned with HTTC’s mandate of producing skilled hospitality professionals capable of meeting international standards in hotels, restaurants, resorts and other tourism enterprises.
Hospitality industry experts say practical competitions can help students develop teamwork, discipline, problem-solving and customer service skills that are critical in the sector.
The event is expected to attract participants and visitors from across Uganda, providing an additional boost to Jinja’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Emmanuel Kaweesi, head of the organising committee, said the programme will include opening and closing ceremonies, live competitions, chef showcases, networking sessions, exhibitions and an awards ceremony.
“We will have an engaging programme featuring opening and closing ceremonies, live competitions, chef showcases, networking sessions, exhibitions and awards recognising outstanding performers,” Kaweesi said.
The second Hospitality Skills Challenge is expected to provide a platform for students to demonstrate their skills while promoting cultural exchange, professional development and the growth of Uganda’s hospitality industry.
