The Kenyan community in Rwanda gathered at the Kigali Paramount Hotel this week for an event celebrating a unique partnership between industry and academia last Friday.
There were also performances by Kenyan musicians Waithaka wa Jane, Dj Dibul and Wangui wa Ndirangu.
Other than the lighthearted discussions that took place, the evening also featured discussions on how universities in the region can produce industry-ready graduates.
Dr Martin Kimemia, Vice Chancellor, Mount Kigali University – Rwanda (MKUR), led the discussion on theory meeting practice, while Kenyan veteran radio personality Muthoni wa Kirumba steered a powerful mentorship session.
Dr Kimemia said 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 firsthand what they learn in class at the Paramount Hotel.
“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.
“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, Chairof Kigali Paramount Hotel and Dean School of Hospitality at MKU, said the hotel brings about 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.
“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,” said Simon Muhoro, Managing Director of Kigali Paramount Hotel.
“We have a panoramic view of the thousand hills that are narrated about Rwanda and are also in proximity to facilities such as the airport, as well as tourism sites,” he said.
During the event, Muthoni wa Kirumba advised students at the School of Journalism at 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 career in media, you will interact with the mightiest to the lowliest in society. In this journey, take it a step at a time, climb the ladder one rung 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 evening, the hotel treated guests to an engaging barbecue experience, as they also shared moments of laughter and exceptional cuisine during the launch of Choma Zone at the hotel.