Uganda’s hospitality students have once again taken centre stage as young talents from different parts of the country gathered in Jinja for the second Hospitality Skills Challenge, a three-day event designed to test their practical abilities and prepare them for the demands of the hospitality industry. The competition was hosted by the Hotel and Tourism Training College in Jinja and attracted students from universities and hospitality training institutions across Uganda.
The competitors went head-to-head in six disciplines, namely cookery, pastry and bakery, restaurant service, rooms division, barista skills and mixology. The event, held under the theme “Fusion of Culture,” gave participants an opportunity to demonstrate not only what they have learnt in classrooms and training kitchens but also how well they can apply their skills in situations similar to those found in real workplaces.The challenge also created a platform for students to interact directly with experienced hospitality professionals. Through masterclasses, mentorship sessions, career guidance and networking opportunities, participants were able to gain knowledge beyond their normal academic training.
Organiser Alleyn Zalwango said the initiative allows training institutions to showcase the skills they are developing in young people while giving the industry a closer look at the next generation of hospitality professionals.The students were judged by professionals from the hospitality sector, who assessed their work according to standards expected in the industry. This meant that competitors had to demonstrate accuracy, creativity, professionalism, presentation and the ability to perform under pressure.
The experience exposed them to the expectations they are likely to encounter when they enter the job market after completing their studies.One of the major changes introduced during this year’s edition was the separation of barista skills and mixology from restaurant service. According to Zalwango, the move followed increasing demand for specialised coffee and beverage professionals in Uganda’s growing hospitality sector. Uganda Breweries Limited supported the category through training and industry expertise, with its Reserve Brand Ambassador Steven Baguma joining Richard and Roy from Kampala Serena Hotel on the judging panel.The mixology competition presented competitors with a series of demanding tasks. In the first round, they were required to prepare classic cocktails such as a Whisky Sour, Margarita and Martini. They were later faced with a mystery basket challenge, where they had to use ingredients provided without prior notice to develop their own original cocktails. Their work was assessed based on technical knowledge, creativity, presentation and their ability to remain composed while working under pressure.The barista competition also required a high level of precision, with students tested on espresso extraction, milk preparation, latte art, free pouring, production and service.
They were further encouraged to bring aspects of Uganda’s culture into their creations. Ocrin Raymond Jonathan emerged as the winner of the combined barista and mixology category after putting up his strongest performance in the mixology section.Beyond determining winners, the competition served as a meeting point between students, educators and employers in the hospitality sector. Organisers said some industry professionals identified students they would like to mentor after graduation, potentially creating opportunities for employment and professional development. With the event attracting growing interest from institutions and industry players, plans are already being considered to make the third edition bigger and create more opportunities for young Ugandans seeking careers in hospitality and tourism.
