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Tourism

Uganda's Tourism Apprenticeship Program Gains Momentum

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Uganda's Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) has commended hospitality sector players for their role in equipping young Ugandans with practical skills through the ongoing tourism apprenticeship program. The program has seen 150 apprentices undergo training at the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI), with many of them being retained by their host employers. The initiative aims to close the school-to-work transition gap and develop a skilled workforce in the tourism sector.

Key Takeaways:

  • The tourism apprenticeship program has admitted two cohorts, with the first cohort of 90 participants set to graduate from UHTTI in November and the second cohort of 150 apprentices transitioning into the industry for practical experience.
  • The program targets young unemployed graduates from hospitality-related fields and aims to develop a pool of skilled personnel along the tourism value chain.
  • The apprentices undergo 30% off-job training at UHTTI and 70% on-job training at host institutions, gaining practical skills that make them employable.
  • Many host employers have retained apprentices, with some attaining high scores and demonstrating competencies, while others have raised concerns about selection, expectations, and salary expectations.
  • Industry stakeholders have praised the program's progress, with no grievances received by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

Statistics:

  • 150 apprentices are undergoing training at UHTTI, with many being retained by their host employers.
  • 90 participants are set to graduate from UHTTI in November as part of the first cohort.
  • The program has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) to train and certify staff.
  • UHTTI has developed online training programs tailored for industry employees unable to attend physical classes.
  • A law passed in March elevated UHTTI to college status, with a rebranding process currently underway.

Sources:

  • "Byline: Kenneth Kazibwe The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) has commended hospitality sector players for their role in equipping young Ugandans with practical skills through the ongoing tourism apprenticeship program."
  • "Copyright 2025 Nile Post. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)."

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