Karongi, on 18^th December 2024: RP-Karongi College Hosted a culinary day under the theme “Chef’s Career Day: Fusion Cuisine: Rwandan Cuisine with International Influence".

This event that brought together students, staff, alumni, and Hotel industry professional showcased the culinary skills of various participants in a cooking competition and highlight the rich diversity of Rwandan and international cuisines.

The objective of the Chef’s Career Day was to promote culinary excellence and innovation, strengthen industry-academia and community collaboration and support career development in the culinary arts.

The event was also intended to provide a platform for students, staff, alumni, and local chefs to showcase their culinary skills and innovative cooking techniques. It aimed to foster collaboration between the College, the hospitality industry, and local hotels, creating strong partnerships that enhance practical learning and job opportunities for students as well as inspire them to explore career opportunities in the culinary arts, hospitality, and food service industries.

Graced the event, Dr. Sylvie Mucyo, the Vice Chancellor of Rwanda Polytechnic recognized all participants especially judges for their contributions to the success of Chef’s Career Day.

She said, “On behalf of Rwanda Polytechnic, I want to thank you so much particularly judges for your availability and support. We value this time you have taken to come here and participate in this first ever Chef’s Career Day.”

"What we want to get out of here is to build professionalism among our students, as they will be entering the professional world once they finish their studies. We also aim to foster their innovation and creativity. As an institution, we highly value the involvement of the private sector in our education and training. Starting with first-year students, this support is invaluable. If we continue this each year, by the end of their third year, students will have developed a strong skill set, preparing them for a smooth transition into the job market."

Executive Chef Claude, the Executive Secretary of the Rwanda Chefs Alliance, stated that the event is a highly significant milestone in a chef's career, as it provides an opportunity to evaluate where they come from and where they aim to go.

He said, "In this career, success is impossible without passion. If you don't have passion for this, you're in the wrong place. This profession demands passion, commitment, and discipline." 

"The reason we are here is because we want you to succeed and see you grow. It is our wish for you to grow, because when you grow, we grow. Never, ever assume that you know everything," added Chef Claude.

The Chefs’ Career Day included a cooking competition featuring students, alumni, and external chefs, with competitors being evaluated on taste, presentation, creativity, and hygiene.