The Tourism Fund on Friday, December 6, 2024, celebrated the graduation of 409 hospitality workers from its upskilling programs at the Kisumu National Polytechnic in Kisumu. The initiative, aimed at enhancing workforce skills in the hospitality sector, has grown substantially from its initial cohort of 100 participants.
Board of Trustees Chairman, Mr. Samson Some, praised the graduates for their commitment and underscored the program’s transformative impact on the industry. “Today, we celebrate the culmination of your hard work and dedication. Your commitment is commendable, and as you step into the industry, I urge you to embrace your diversity as a strength,” he stated.
The graduates completed training in five disciplines: Food Production (190), Front Office (77), Housekeeping (54), Food Service (73), and Barista & Mixology (15). The short-term courses are tailored for professionals already active in the industry, providing advanced skills to improve service delivery and customer experiences.
Mr. Some highlighted the program’s success, attributing it to strong collaborations between the Tourism Fund and the hospitality sector. He also noted the critical role of tourism levy compliance, which has led to an 80% increase in collections from the Western region.
“This compliance has been pivotal in funding critical programs like the one we are celebrating today. Timely levy payments are essential to sustaining the Tourism Fund’s services and ensuring the sector’s long-term viability,” he said.
Focus on Workforce Inclusivity
Kisumu County Minister for Education, Technical Training, Innovation and Social Services, Mr. John Awiti, commended the program’s approach to addressing workforce skill gaps.
“This is a unique initiative. Unlike traditional polytechnic courses that span two years or more, this upskilling program bridges existing skill gaps in just two weeks. Graduates return to their workplaces with improved capabilities, and we’ll advocate for their promotion,” Awiti said.
He also highlighted the program’s inclusivity, noting its support for individuals with disabilities. “This initiative not only enhances skills but also provides a pathway for youth employment and entrepreneurship. Its inclusivity makes it a model worth expanding,” he added.
Kisumu Polytechnic’s Role
Kisumu National Polytechnic Deputy Principal for Academics, Mr. Tom Oswago, expressed pride in hosting the program.
“This graduation marks a milestone for Kisumu and Kenya. Over two weeks, 409 trainees have completed courses in key hospitality disciplines. We are honored to contribute to the transformation of the sector,” said Oswago.
He reiterated the institution’s readiness for future collaborations, emphasizing its role in producing graduates capable of driving innovation and excellence in hospitality.
Looking Ahead
The Tourism Fund’s graduation ceremony reaffirmed its commitment to professionalizing Kenya’s hospitality industry, equipping workers with skills aligned with international standards. With plans to expand training programs, the initiative is poised to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and industry sustainability.
