Fresh graduates from Mount Kenya University (MKU) were treated to a memorable experience at Kigali Paramount Hotel following their graduation ceremony on August 8. Accompanied by parents and guardians, the group praised the hotel’s modern facilities, fine finishing, and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel’s General Manager, Mr. Galgallo Halakhe Waqo, expressed his delight in hosting the visitors saying that; “today we hosted a number of MKU graduates with their families. They were very excited—you could tell from their faces. They enjoyed the food and the ambience. As Kigali Paramount Hotel, we congratulate the graduates and wish them success. Their future is bright.” Olivier Welcome, a master’s graduate, lauded the hotel’s cleanliness and amenities, calling the overall experience “superb.” One of the Parents, Augustine Rudakubona, said the establishment was a valuable addition to Rwanda’s hospitality sector. “The construction of this facility is a blessing to the country. It will help grow the tourism industry, equip young people with essential skills, and provide employment,” he said. Mr. Waqo noted that the hotel also serves as a training ground for students. “Together with Mount Kenya University, our aim is to offer hands-on experience. Hospitality students train with us before joining the industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for both local and international job markets.” Dr. Jane Wambui, Dean of the School of Hospitality and Tourism at MKU, praised Rwanda’s growing tourism industry and the government’s commitment to making it one of the nation’s top foreign exchange earners. She confirmed that MKU has already attached second- and fourth-year students to the hotel for practical training in areas such as housekeeping and laundry. Kenyan students are also interning at the facility, gaining exposure to Rwandan cuisine and culture. Dr. Wambui revealed that MKU and its Rwandan counterpart plan to expand student exchange programs. “We look forward to welcoming Rwandan students to Kenya soon,” she said. The Kigali Paramount Hotel, which opened just two months ago, sits along Bugesera Highway next to the university. For many graduates, it was their first time seeing the state-of-the-art facility. “It’s one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the university. It will play a significant role in training and promoting the hospitality industry in Africa and beyond,” said Ugandan graduate Samuel Muhumuza. Dr. Wambui further highlighted the hotel’s continental significance, noting that Rwanda now joins a select group of African countries hosting hospitality training hotels. She added that the institution plans to offer refresher courses in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board. In addition to education, the hotel has embraced environmental stewardship. Inspired by a visit to gorillas in Kinigi, the institution’s founder pledged a USD 40,000 grant to produce a book on ecosystem conservation. The book, currently under review, will be distributed to hotel rooms, schools, libraries, and other institutions. “Young people in Rwanda are eager to learn and easy to nurture. This is good for the country, as it brings positive change,” Dr. Wambui remarked. With its dual mission of luxury hospitality and practical training, Kigali Paramount Hotel is positioning itself as both a tourism magnet and a centre of excellence for future industry professionals.
