Kampala University Shines at 2nd Hospitality Skills Challenge 2026 in Jinja
JINJA, 11 September 2026 — Kampala University has proudly showcased its commitment to practical, industry-oriented education through its participation in the 2nd Hospitality Skills Challenge 2026, held at the Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC), Jinja, from 9–11 September 2026.
The three-day hospitality and tourism skills competition, held under the theme “Fusion of Culture,” brought together students and trainees from more than 10 institutions to demonstrate their professional competencies, creativity and practical skills across various areas of the hospitality industry.
Kampala University was represented by a team from the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, led and guided by Mr. Katoogo Gonzaga, a lecturer in the department. The University’s participation provided students with an important opportunity to compete alongside their peers from other institutions, gain practical exposure and demonstrate the skills acquired through their academic and practical training.
The competition featured several key hospitality disciplines, including Culinary Arts/Cookery, Pastry and Bakery, Restaurant Service, Barista and Mixology, and Rooms Division. Participants were assessed on their technical competence, creativity, presentation, professionalism and ability to apply industry standards in practical settings.
In Culinary Arts/Cookery, competitors demonstrated food preparation, cooking techniques, presentation and creativity. The Pastry and Bakery category tested participants’ ability to prepare and present a variety of baked and pastry products, with emphasis on technical precision, creativity and presentation. In Restaurant Service, participants showcased professional table setting, food and beverage service, customer care and hospitality etiquette.
The Barista and Mixology category provided an opportunity for competitors to demonstrate coffee preparation, beverage presentation and professional beverage-service skills, while the Rooms Division category focused on hotel room preparation, housekeeping standards and other accommodation-service competencies.
The official opening ceremony was presided over by Hon. Susan Nakawuki Nsambu, State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, who highlighted the importance of equipping young people with practical hospitality skills to enhance their employment opportunities both in Uganda and internationally.
Kampala University delivered a commendable performance, particularly in the Pastry and Bakery category.
The University expressed special appreciation to Ms. Njoroge Purity, a Second-Year, Semester One weekend student at Kampala University Jinja Campus, for her guidance, support and encouragement throughout the challenge. Her contribution played an important role in motivating and supporting the team during the competition.
Special recognition was also extended to Mr. Muzoora of Jinja Campus for his commitment, effort and dedication towards ensuring Kampala University’s participation in the challenge. His contribution helped the University to secure representation at the event and provided an important platform for Kampala University students to demonstrate their talents and competencies.
Kampala University remains loyal to excellence in skills development and to producing graduates who are ready to make a meaningful contribution to Uganda’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.
By Ssekatawa Julius Abubakar
P.R.O Kampala University