Strathmore University and Kempinski Hotels on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) where one of the provisions is that Strathmore University School of Tourism & Hospitality (SU-STH) students will from now on be lined up for internships at the prestigious hotel chain.
The number of SU-STH students selected will be dependent on SU’s departmental needs and Kempinski’s operational capacity.
In the agreement signed Monday, Kempinski will also provide job shadow opportunities for two Strathmore University staff members per year for a period of one month each for industry exposure.
On the other hand, Strathmore University will offer a 15% discount on tuition fees to Kempinski staff who meet the entrance requirements and are admitted to the SU-STH special exempt degree programme.
Kempinski staff members who hold a 3- or 4-year diploma in hospitality management from an accredited institution will also be free to apply for a special exempt programme for a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management as long as they meet the admission requirements as set by the Commission for University Education (CUE).
A further 10% discount on the applicable tuition fees will be extended to Kempinski staff who participate in executive programmes conducted at SU-STH.
Strathmore University will also provide academic training and refresher courses to Kempinski staff at a discounted fee subject to prior written agreement on timings, training needs, mode of training, venue and costs among other details by the parties.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, the General Manager for Kempinksi Kenya Roberto Simone said the agreement presents a good opportunity for Kempinski staff remain relevant in an age where competition in all industries is cutthroat.
“This deal will ensure that we have the best staff in the market and our people get relevant training. For instance, data analytics is where the world is headed and I think our staff could benefit from that at Strathmore,” said Mr Simone.
Strathmore Deputy Vice-Chancellor- Academic& Student Affairs Elizabeth Gachenga hailed the agreement as a gamechanger for both institutions saying both institutions will vastly improve on what they already have.
“We are delighted by this deal. We believe that co-operating will unlock many opportunities for both parties and are glad that our students and staff will benefit,” said Dr Gachenga.
Other Provisions in the MoU Include
- Strathmore will provide the opportunity for Kempinski to participate in the career fairs organized by the University.
- Strathmore will provide students when called upon by Kempinski for banqueting functions and special events provided the timing will not interfere with their classes, exams or any other academic requirement.
- Kempinski will provide management trainee positions to fresh SU graduates when appropriate opportunities open up and upon satisfactory performance in interviews, the internship opportunity may also lead to employment.
- Kempinksi may in conjunction with SU identify pertinent research areas of mutual interest and engage SU students and staff in conducting a research project based on the challenges being experienced by Kempinski in its hotel operations.
- SU may also provide expertise to carry out data analytics for the benefit of Kempinski. SU shall provide results of research conducted on what always pertains to Kempinski provided that all intellectual property rights shall remain with SU.
Leave a comment