The Kenyan community in Rwanda this week gathered at the prestigious Kigali Paramount Hotel to witness a unique partnership between the industry and academia—more specifically Mount Kigali University-Rwanda (MKUR).
During the event, stakeholders engaged in rich discussions that sought to answer a pertinent question, “How can universities in the region produce industry-ready graduates?”
Dr. Martin Kimemia, in his capacity as the Vice Chancellor MKUR, led the discussion on theory meeting practice, in a bid to bridge the gap between abstract knowledge (theory) and real-world application. On her part, Kenyan veteran radio personality Muthoni wa Kirumba steered a powerful mentorship session.
According to Dr Kimemia, the hotel and MKUR have a unique model that ties through which students pursuing tourism and hospitality studies at MKUR have an opportunity to see first hand what they learn in class at the Paramount Hotel.
Dr. Kimemia noted that the model sets both the Paramount Hotel and MKUR apart from the rest of the industry in training the next generation of hospitality professionals.
“These types of programmes where you train people in theory but also practice ensures that you are producing quality workers ready for the job market,” he said. “The hotel, in partnership with Mount Kigali University, will provide students with hands-on experience in a real-world setting, learning from industry experts while providing top-tier service to our valued clients.”
He added: “This initiative will create a dynamic environment where students not only hone their skills but also elevate the guest experience. Every guest who stays with us will be part of this journey, benefiting from fresh perspectives, innovative service, and a dedication to excellence.”
Dr Jane Wambui Kanjuru, Chair Kigali Paramount Hotel and Dean School of Hospitality at MKU, was upbeat, citing that the hotel and the academic instituion brings an exciting new chapter in the hospitality industry.
“What sets us apart is our unique approach to training the next generation of hospitality professionals,” she said.
Soft operations
The Paramount Hotel, which started soft operations last year, has already started to get traction and is currently ranked among the top hotels by both local and international travelers to Rwanda.
“We have a world class facility… We have accommodation that ranges from penthouse experience to deluxe. Our prices are amazing and affordable. We try to accommodate international travellers, local travelers and people coming for business and leisure,” said Simon Muhoro, Managing Director Kigali Paramount Hotel.
Muhoro added: “If you are looking to experience Rwandan culture, you find that we are rich in that. We have incorporated the community, have programmes that change the community. We have developed concepts that incorporate culture and traditions but also, from the design of the hotel, it marries with the colour and culture of the country.”
The hotel has a panoramic view of the a thousand hills that are synonymous to Rwanda, while also enjoying a close proximity to facilities such as the airport and tourism sites.
On her part, Muthoni wa Kirumba advised students at the School of Journalism at the Mount Kenya University.
“It has been a tough journey especially for women, who are branded as socialites and other sometimes demeaning titles but you have to have the will to fight. In your careers in media, you will interact with the mightiest to the lowliest in the society. In this journey, take it a step at a time, climb the ladder one rank at a time. It will not be easy,” she said. “It has been tough but if I were to do it all over again, I would become a journalist. And I would specifically want to work in radio.”
During the event on Friday, January 16, the guests were treated to an engaging barbecue experience, as they also shared moments of laughter and exceptional cuisine during the launch of Choma Zone at the hotel.
Kenyan musicians — Waithaka wa Jane, Dj Dibul, Wangui wa Ndirangu — also entertained the guests.
