Tiyani Hahlani
Centre News Hub
MASVINGO — Henryarthur Hospitality School recently held its first-ever graduation ceremony since its establishment in 2022, with 20 students graduating at an event held at Granez Restaurant in the city.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone for the institution, which has trained dozens of students over the past three years but had not previously managed to host a formal graduation.
Managing director Chef Arthur Masocha said the event was a breakthrough for the growing institution, which has faced delays in organizing the ceremony.
“At our school, we have managed to train around 100 students since the opening of the school back in 2022, but as an upcoming institution, we have been failing to hold a graduation. Today we have finally managed, and we worked with those who paid up, which is why you see only 20 graduates,” said Masocha.
“At first, many people had doubts about whether this would happen, so this is a big achievement for us, as we spent over a week with only one student, but we thrived until we managed to have this graduation. Over the years, we have been planning, but the graduation kept being postponed,” he added.
Masocha added that the institution’s impact extends beyond classroom learning, as it also assists students in securing employment after completing their studies.
“We do not just train students, we also help them find employment when they graduate. We already have a former student, Kudakwashe Mudefi, who is now working at the President’s Office. Our main aim is to serve and grow Masvingo tourism first,” he said.
Speaking with Publication, the Pan African Leadership Institute and Development Centre chairman, Professor Fredrick Kasese, who was the guest of honour, said the institution’s training model combines both academic learning and practical experience.
“Experience without education has a ceiling, and this institution offers education, experience, and dedicated knowledge. It stands as a pioneering private hospitality college in the southern region,” said Prof. Kasese, who is also the Great Zimbabwe Destination Marketing Management Organisation (DMMO) chairman.
He also added that such an approach is key in preparing students for opportunities in the tourism sector, particularly as the country gears up for major events. He also encourages the students in the culinary industry to shine in promoting our traditional dishes, especially at the tourism expo, which is being hosted in Masvingo.
“I encourage the students that graduating and also those who are already in the tourism sector to shine when preparing the traditional dishes, for the Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Expo. They must demonstrate their skills, innovation, and creativity, and also venture in the competitions that the First Lady Dr Auxilla Mnangagwa is promoting traditional dishes,” he said.
The graduation marks a new chapter for Henryarthur Hospitality School as it positions itself to contribute to skills development and the growth of the tourism sector in Masvingo and beyond.
