The University of Zululand, in partnership with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), successfully hosted the inaugural Tourism and Hospitality Postgraduate Conference on 16–17 July 2025 at the Richards Bay Campus. Under the theme “Advances in Tourism and Hospitality Studies”, the event brought together emerging scholars, academics, and industry professionals from across the African continent, setting the stage for robust discussions around research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and education in the tourism and hospitality sector.
The hybrid conference held both physically and virtually featured keynote addresses, oral presentations, exhibitions, and panel discussions showcasing postgraduate work across tourism development, indigenous gastronomy, community engagement, food innovation, and rural tourism models.
One of the standout moments of the conference came during the keynote by Prof Magdalena Petronella (Nellie) Swart, Associate Professor of Tourism Management at the University of South Africa. With clarity and passion, she emphasized the urgent need for Africans to lead research about Africa not just as participants, but as drivers of knowledge and implementers of recommendations.
“Europeans and Americans often travel to Africa to conduct research but how many African scholars go to Europe or America for the same? We must research our own continent and drive the change we want to see,” she said.
Prof Swart also challenged academic institutions to ensure that students get real exposure to industry by encouraging volunteering and participation in work-integrated learning. Her call to action resonated deeply with delegates and students alike.
Another high point was the panel discussion titled “The Future of Tourism and Hospitality Research: Academic and Industry Perspectives,” which featured a diverse mix of voices from academia and the private sector. Moderated by Prof Ikechukwu O. Ezeuduji, the panel included voices such as Mr. Mpendulo Mbulawa (Travel Consultant & Community Tourism Strategist), Prof Nellie Swart (Unisa), Ms. Lerato Mndawe (Principal Tourism Officer – uMhlathuze Municipality), Ms. Itumeleng Seleke (Director – Nomusa Bed & Breakfast), and Dr Mumsy Chibe (Senior Lecturer, Consumer Science – Unisa).
Panellists engaged deeply on the importance of bridging the academic-industry gap, with the tourism sector strongly encouraging lecturers to participate in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) themselves. This, they argued, would enhance their ability to teach real-world experiences not just theory.
In turn, students were advised not to shy away from basic yet essential tasks such as bed-making or cleaning during their internships, as these are part of the value chain in the hospitality industry.
“Work-integrated learning is not just about getting your foot in the door, it’s about understanding how every part of the operation contributes to guest satisfaction and business sustainability,” one panellist noted.
From research on indigenous granola, sustainable rural tourism, and sorghum porridge for people with swallowing disorders, to critical reflections on entrepreneurship education and gastronomy tourism in King Cetshwayo District, the conference proudly showcased innovation rooted in African realities.
Breakaway sessions and exhibitions allowed students to share their research outputs, food prototypes, and innovations with peers, faculty, and guests, while also receiving constructive feedback and encouragement.
In a sector as dynamic and people-centred as tourism, events like the 1st Tourism and Hospitality Postgraduate Conference reinforce the need for Afrocentric, inclusive, and applied research. They also provide an important platform for young researchers to connect with decision-makers and industry leaders.
As Mr. Mpendulo Mbulawa, panelist and Executive Member of the uMhlathuze Community Tourism Organisation, concluded: “For research to matter, it must live beyond the paper. It must speak to communities, influence development, and be guided by lived experience.”
The conference closed with a celebratory dinner and award ceremony, leaving participants motivated, better connected, and ready to take African tourism to the next level.
