Founded 50 years ago, the hotel department of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) grew into an internationally renowned hospitality management school. The UJ School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) now offers attractive, substantive training programs and leads the field in its sector through its experience and expertise.
The School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) within the College of Business and Economics at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrated it’s splendid 50 years in Tourism & hospitality education, on Wednesday, 18 September at Auckland Park Bunting Road campus.
Ranked number 1 in Africa, in the QS rankings for Hospitality and Leisure Studies (2018), the STH is Africa’s leading tertiary institution in the field of Tourism and Hospitality. Globally, the STH is ranked 20th out of 100 Tourism and Hospitality Schools. Furthermore, the STH has an impressive list of alumni who have achieved recognition both locally and internationally. At the STH, students are offered the opportunity of implementing theory into practice and to gain valuable hospitality experiences at our state of the art training facilities. Also, the school offers a platform for students to showcase their culinary and food and beverage expertise though banqueting, conferencing and fine-dining experiences offered at STH venues which are open to the public.
Addressing at the STH conversation, Dr Diane Abrahmse, Director: School of Tourism and Hospitality Management said: “‘The Fourth Industrial revolution is an economic paradigm that we can’t ignore as Africans. Today is about appreciation and acknowledgement of leaders who have guided the STH on its journey to date. It is also a commitment to take the school to the next level and to lead in developing Africa’s talent in the field of tourism & hospitality.”
The celebration culminated in the Alumni Awards. Prof Daneel van Lil, Executive Dean: College of Business and Economics, spoke about the future of Tourism & Hospitality in the 4IR age. “4IR technology whether artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT), big data or blockchain is spreading fast. This era offers remarkable opportunities to enhance the customer experience needed in the hospitality field.”
“Nothing is really secret anymore, people are exchanging ideas all the time and technology is wonderful to tap in to the wisdom of others in this tourism industry”, explained Prof van Lil.
Ther other panel discussion was around Tourism and Hospitality Innovation in the Pan-Africa context.
The 2019 Rising Star Alumnus Award winner was presented to Ms. Thobile Dlamini and the Golden Circle Alumnus Award was presented to the Victor, Mr. Gert Brumme who have made significant achievements in the tourism and hospitality profession and demonstrated a high level of community involvement.
