Amboseli at 30: Why Hotels Are Hiring Amboseli Students Before They Complete Their Courses

At a time when thousands of Kenyan graduates struggle to secure employment, Amboseli Institute of Hospitality and Technology says up to 85 per cent of its students are absorbed into the job market before completing their courses.

The institution made the announcement as it celebrated its 30th anniversary and held its 16th graduation ceremony at the institution's grounds in Thika, during which approximately 175 students graduated under the theme, “Skilled. Ready. Unstoppable.”

Academic Director Hellen Kibe said many of the graduates had already secured employment after being retained by organisations where they completed their internships.

“By the time our students finish their courses, between 80 and 85 per cent have already been absorbed. We do not struggle to secure internships or employment opportunities for them,” Kibe said.

Some former students are working for leading hospitality brands in Kenya and Dubai, reflecting growing international demand for professionally trained workers.

Sarova Panafric General Manager David Thiong’o said Kenya’s expanding hospitality and tourism industries were creating opportunities for graduates with the right skills, discipline and attitude. He praised Amboseli Institute for producing graduates who are prepared for the realities of the workplace, saying the hotel had not experienced disciplinary problems with interns recruited from the institution.

“This institution has quietly and consistently produced something the hospitality industry desperately needs... People who are not merely qualified but genuinely prepared,” Thiong’o said.

He noted that more than 10 international hotel brands had entered the Kenyan market over the past decade, joining established local companies and creating demand for trained professionals. New hotels, the revival of conference and events tourism and increasing regional and international visitor numbers were also supporting the sector’s growth.

“The industry is growing and the jobs are available, but they are for the right people. Graduates must remain focused and continue developing the skills employers require,” he said.

As technology transforms the workplace, Amboseli Institute has partnered with Evolving Global to introduce artificial intelligence training tailored to hospitality and tourism. The programme will benefit current students, employees and alumni, helping them use emerging technology while remaining competitive in the job market.

Graduate Abel Mwangi said AI had already transformed how he approached his studies and work, particularly when developing recipes and calculating quantities and ratios.

“I have used AI both in school and at work and it has been a game changer. It has helped me accomplish things I never thought I could,” he said.

Online School Set for Launch

The institution is also preparing to launch an online school, which is expected to begin offering classes in January 2027. Systems administrator Philip Ndeng’era said the platform would initially provide short, self-paced courses accessible to learners within and outside Kenya. Students attending physical classes will also be able to combine them with online learning through a hybrid model.

Madam Hellen Kibe noted that most of the technical preparations had been completed and that the digital school would become operational within weeks. The initiative is expected to expand access to training for learners unable to attend physical classes and help the institution reach students beyond Kenya.

Acknowledging that many young people cannot afford college education, Kibe said the institution had established partnerships to support learners with financial challenges. Among the partners is Chansen, an international company that provides education financing based on each student’s needs. Beneficiaries begin repaying the money after completing their training and securing employment.

Individuals, churches, non-governmental organisations, conservancies and children’s homes have also sponsored students at the institution.

“For 30 years, Amboseli has demonstrated resilience, consistency and a commitment to quality,” Kibe said. “We are proud of the milestones achieved and look towards the future with great anticipation.”

Jubilee Party national youth leader Angel Mbuthia encouraged the graduates to look beyond their first qualification and use their skills to pursue leadership, entrepreneurship and international opportunities.

She advised them to travel, explore employment opportunities across Kenya and abroad and take advantage of the digital economy.

“You can begin as a chef and eventually become a head chef, lead an entire kitchen or manage a hospitality outlet. The skills acquired today can open many other doors,” Mbuthia said.

She also urged hospitality professionals to understand government policies, national budgets, immigration rules and international relations because such decisions directly affected tourism and employment.

Former student Erastus Mbugua, now a professional tour guide with more than 11 years of experience, credited the institution with laying the foundation for his career. As an alumni who made it in the industry, he encouraged the graduating class to take every opportunity seriously, noting that internships could develop into permanent jobs or inspire graduates to establish their own businesses.

“Opportunities exist out there. When you receive one, take it seriously because it can become a job or help you create employment for yourself and others,” Mbugua said.

Hospitality Management graduate Joseph Okoth Ouma said he was ready to begin applying for jobs, with his ultimate ambition being to work aboard a cruise ship. Fellow graduate Sonia Waithira said she was confident that her training had adequately prepared her for the labour market.

As Amboseli Institute begins its fourth decade, its focus is shifting towards digital learning, artificial intelligence and closer industry partnerships, equipping graduates not simply with certificates, but with practical skills they can turn into careers.