Perceptions of Industry Engagement in Tourism and Hospitality Studies in South Africa

Abstract

This research aimed to determine student and industry perceptions of industry engagement in tourism and hospitality studies in South Africa. The study applied a mixed methodology to ascertain these perceptions to determine how industry engagement can be enhanced in order to produce work-ready, employable and entrepreneurial graduates, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on 420 valid surveys conducted with students across six universities, the key findings suggest that students perceive that their universities sufficiently and effectively provide them with the necessary soft skills, practical skills, creativity skills, and personal responsibility tools through industry engagement activities. Respondents agreed that universities are actively preparing tourism and hospitality students for the world of work and assisting them with career development through industry engagement. The study concludes that the benefits of industry engagement for students include inter alia academic progress, personal development, career planning and workplace exposure, as well as the development of key skills and competencies.

Is there equal employment opportunity in tourism? An evaluation of African students' perceptions of future careers

“…The findings showed that tourism students value entrepreneurship education in their future employment prospects. In addition to academics, self-employed people and student employees have improved non-cognitive skills valued in tourism (Daniels et al ., 2022). TE is a theoretical subject, so it may not teach students survival and independence skills.…”

“…The study found that tourism students view entrepreneurship education as a major factor in their employment prospects. Along with their employment and self-employment, students have developed and improved non-cognitive skills that the tourism industry has yet to recognise (Daniels et al ., 2022). Theoretically TE students may need survival and independence skills.…”

“…A study was conducted to evaluate the perspectives of tourism students to identify methods for improving industry involvement and producing graduates who are prepared for employment and entrepreneurship, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Daniels et al (2022), the students believed that their universities adequately and efficiently equipped them with essential soft skills and creativity skills. Additionally, the universities supported their career development by engaging them in industry-related activities.…”