Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) and Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH), have announced its partnership with the renowned Swiss Hotel School, Schweizerische Hotelfachule Lucerne (Swiss Hotel School Lucerne). The two entities will together launch the Swiss African Academy of Hospitality and Management (SAAHM) which will be a world-class hotel school based in Harare, focused on catering to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the African hospitality industry.
The partnership between RTG and GMH joint venture and the Swiss Hotel School Lucerne stems from a shared vision of nurturing talent and promoting excellence in the hospitality sector. By leveraging their respective expertise, both organizations aim to bridge the skills gap in Africa and equip aspiring professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic hospitality industry.
Through this partnership, RTG and Swiss Hotel School Lucerne will jointly develop and implement a comprehensive training programs tailored to the specific needs of the African hospitality sector. The programs will encompass various facets of hospitality management, including customer service, culinary arts, hotel operations, event management, and sustainable tourism practices.
RTG, with its extensive experience in the African tourism landscape, will provide valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of the region. Swiss Hotel School Lucerne, well-known for its world-class hospitality education, will contribute its expertise in curriculum development and training methodologies.
“We are excited to partner with Swiss Hotel School Lucerne to spearhead the capacity building of hospitality skills in Africa,” said Mr. Tendai Madziwanyika the Chief Executive of Rainbow Tourism Group. “By combining our local knowledge with Swiss Hotel School Lucerne’s renowned hospitality expertise, we aim to empower individuals and elevate the standards of the African hospitality industry. This collaboration will not only benefit aspiring professionals, but also contribute to the sustainable growth of tourism in the region. We will be enrolling university graduates and capacitate them to the next level by giving them practical technical industry skills and leadership skills to make them job ready.”
Mr. Martin Smura, Chairman of Grand Metropolitan Hotels, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, “We are delighted to collaborate with Rainbow Tourism Group to facilitate the development of hospitality skills in Africa. Our joint efforts will empower individuals to unlock their potential, enhance career prospects, and contribute to the overall professionalization of the African hospitality sector. Together, we will make a lasting impact.”
The capacity-building programs will be rolled out in phases, starting with pilot initiatives in Zimbabwe and subsequently expanding to other African countries. The training will be delivered through a combination of classroom sessions, practical training, online, and industry internships to provide participants with hands-on experience.
