The Nigerian hospitality sector is a vibrant and growing landscape, demanding a constant influx of skilled and industry-ready professionals.
Recognizing the crucial role of practical experience in shaping these future leaders, Goldenhut Hospitality Solutions Limited collaborated with the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Port Harcourt (Uniport) to empower the next generation recently.
The partnership was highlighted during the department’s recent 2025 Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) orientation program, held within the university premises. Representatives from Goldenhut engaged in an interactive and insightful session with the enthusiastic year three students, who are on the cusp of embarking on their mandatory six-month SIWES placements.
The session served as a vital bridge between the academic rigor of university learning and the dynamic realities of the hospitality and tourism industry. Goldenhut’s experts shared invaluable real-world experiences, offering practical advice and strategies to help students maximize their SIWES engagement.
Topics ranged from the importance of proactive learning and seeking mentorship within their host organizations to understanding industry best practices and developing crucial soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Dr. Linda Duke-Andrew and Dr. Ifeanyi Ekwunife speaking on behalf of Goldenhut during the event emphasized the transformative potential of the SIWES program. “This is not just about fulfilling a requirement,” they stated. “It’s a golden opportunity to immerse yourselves in the practical aspects of your chosen field, to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world application, and to build a foundation for a successful career.”
The interactive nature of the session allowed students to ask pertinent questions, address anxieties about their upcoming placements, and gain clarity on how to make the most of this crucial learning phase. Goldenhut’s team underscored the importance of viewing SIWES as a stepping stone towards future employment, encouraging students to network, demonstrate initiative, and cultivate a strong work ethic.
The department SIWES cordinator Dr.Victor Otobo and the Head of department Dr. J.N. Ekeke emphasized during their speech that this collaboration between Goldenhut and Uniport exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the skills gap within the Nigerian hospitality sector. By directly engaging with students before their industry immersion, Goldenhut aims to equip them with the mindset and tools necessary to thrive during their SIWES program and beyond.
During the closing remarks the Dean of faculty of management sciences Professor Godwin Umoh said that this initiative also serves as a call to action for other industry players.
By actively participating in the development of future hospitality professionals through similar collaborations with academic institutions, the sector can collectively contribute to a more skilled and capable workforce, ultimately driving growth, innovation, and excellence within Nigeria’s vibrant hospitality and tourism industry.
The partnership between Goldenhut and University of Port Harcourt is a shining example of how academia and industry can work hand-in-hand to cultivate the stars of tomorrow.
