Derry students encouraged to explore job opportunities in tourism sector

Ulster University and the Northwest Regional College (NWRC) are encouraging individuals to explore the vast range of rewarding career paths in the hospitality, tourism, and events sectors.

In its 95th year, NW200 has helped put NI on the map by bringing together thousands of spectators and participants travelling from across the globe for a thrilling festival of racing, stunt shows, concerts, and fireworks against the natural beauty of the coastline, promising to be an experience to remember.

During the past two decades, these industries have adapted and transformed to become some of the most resilient and successful sectors of the local economy, contributing over £1.1 billion annually and representing approximately one in every 12 jobs across the region.

Tourism alone is one of Northern Ireland's most widely distributed sectors, both geographically and socially, with around 70% of job opportunities located outside Belfast.

Professor Ioannis S. Pantelidis, Head of Department of Hospitality Tourism and Events Management at Ulster University Business School (UUBS) said: “In Northern Ireland, our people are at the heart of the thriving hospitality, tourism, and events sectors here which highlights the crucial need to invest in high-quality education and the nurturing of our future industry leaders for sustaining the industry's vitality.

“Few other industries can contend with the exciting possibilities that these sectors have on offer. One of the most enticing features of pursuing a career in this field is that several programmes at Ulster University provide an accelerated path to managerial and leadership roles, something that is not commonly found in other sectors.

“It’s important that everyone has access to the education they need to pursue their aspirations. Collaborating with educational providers across all levels creates seamless pathways and ensures that students receive the necessary learning opportunities and resources to embark on successful career journeys.”

This year, Ulster University was ranked second across the entire UK by The Guardian University Guide 2024 for its Hospitality, Events Management, and Tourism courses.

At Ulster University Coleraine, students and businesses alike have access an exceptional array of top-tier support facilities including the Consumer Insight Lab, the Market Intelligence Lab, and the Food and Consumer Sensory Testing Suite, all aimed at providing knowledge support and assisting skills development.

Dr Catherine O'Mullan, Director of Curriculum and Academic Standards North West Regional College (NWRC), added: “NWRC is delighted to be part of the collaborative approach with Ulster University and NRC to deliver high quality education and training for the areas of Hospitality and Tourism. The college offers a range of full time and part time provision, including the new Traineeship in Professional Chef as well as a number of part time and full time Higher Education courses.

The college also specialises in a range of short academy training courses linked directly to business needs in Barista Skills, Customer Services Skills/Customer Experience, Food Safety, Food Allergens and Professional Cookery to re-skill and upskill staff to ensure pipeline of skilled labour supporting an increasing demand in these areas important to the regional economy.”