Strathmore University added a new programme to its diverse portfolio of courses with the launch of the Master in Hospitality Business Management programme. The unique and collaborative programme, that includes an international module in Modul University, Vienna, will provide graduates with a strong skill base in ethical leadership, business acumen, sustainable management, entrepreneurship and research that need to be applied at top or mid-level management in addressing contemporary hospitality industry needs and challenges.

Post Covid-19 operations

The launch of the programme is a timely response to the tourism and hospitality sector which is in need of adapting and preparing for robust post Covid-19 operations.  The sector, in 2019, brought in 1.6 billion dollars according to the Kenya Tourism Sector Performance Report, with a record 2,048,334 international visitors arriving in Kenya in that year. Though a growth was projected in 2020, the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic dealt a blow to the industry that has previously risen from threats such as terrorism and political instability. The financial repercussions of the pandemic, fueled by restrictions of travel and measures put in place to curb the spread of the virus, will require time to recover. Global indicators, however, show that the sector will bounce back once the pandemic is contained and travel is restored to near normalcy.

“The Covid-19 pandemic can be a threat as well an opportunity. A threat because of lives lost and economic losses. However, it is an opportunity because using technology we can today network and exchange ideas from all corners of the globe,” Hon. Najib Balala, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife noted in his keynote address.

“Strathmore University is the-go-to- institution for those seeking excellence in higher learning in the region. You have continued to make sure that the graduates are well prepared and fully equipped with the right professional skills and knowledge, ready to handle the diverse demands of the highly sensitive and dynamic industry,” he added.

We exist to serve society

Speaking during the event, Prof. John Odhiambo, Vice Chancellor, said, “With the launch of this new programme, we are answering to the strategic plan of the University. We exist to serve society and this programme will impact people’s lives in a practical way and teach individuals to serve.”

Strathmore University has over the years sought to impact leaders involved in the growth of our country and has been at the forefront in creating platforms for conversations geared towards improving livelihoods. This goes a long way in developing a highly-skilled workforce in many sectors including the Tourism and Hospitality Sector.

“A great university will rise to the occasion at this time of the pandemic. It will re-invent programmes, create new programmes, and will double its effort to collaborate in research to contribute to finding the solution to the Covid-19 crisis,” Dr. David Chiawo, Dean, School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) added.

The roundtable discussions provided a forum for stakeholders to engage in a rich discussion and explore ways in which we can turn the tide, during and after the Covid-19 pandemic, to leverage on the vast opportunities and skilled professionalism in the sector in order to build a thriving economy. Panelists included Mr. Roberto Simone, General Manager, Kempinski; Dr. David Chiawo, Dean, STH; Ms. Samantha Muna, Director of Business Development, Hilton, and Mr. Mike Macharia, Chief Executive Officer, Kenya Association of Hotel Keepers and Caterers (KAHC).

 

Learn more about the new programme here.

 

This article was written by Wambui Gachari.

 

Would you like to share your experience of living through the circumstances brought by the Covid-19 pandemic? Kindly email: communications@strathmore.edu