Gender Disaggregated Perspectives of Tourism and Hospitality Training in Uganda

Abstract

ABSTRACT Tourism and hospitality industry require competent and skilled human resources to meet the industry’s needs and keep it competitive. This study, undertaken at Makerere University, Uganda, examined gender segregated core skills desired by employers in the tourism and hospitality industry and students’ perception of internship training. Using documentary review and focus group discussions, data were collected and subjected to content and thematic analysis, an independent t-test and exploratory factor analysis. Results reveal that different skill sets categorized under personal and adaptability attributes are desired by employers in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality industry. Gender did not influence students’ choice of organizations for internship training. However, there were gender-based variations that influenced the training outcomes. The study recommends strengthening of training to enhance skills in communication, team work, time management, and presentability desired by employers in the industry. A pathway is proposed to enable tourism and hospitality training to become gender transformative.