Sixth edition of ‘Discover Hospitality’ program concludes

The sixth batch of 'Discover Hospitality' has concluded their training and have been awarded certificates.

Discover Hospitality is a program conducted by Universal Foundation in collaboration with Villa College offering training in the hospitality field.

Seventeen students who completed the Discover Hospitality program were awarded certificates, and nine students selected for the Culinary Arts program were presented letters.

Speaking at the ceremony, Universal Foundation President Iyaz Waheed recognized Discover Hospitality as a renowned and successful program. He noted that over 80 percent of students who have completed the program are now gainfully employed within the tourism sector.

Iyaz said that along with Discover Hospitality, the Culinary Arts progam has also been received well by the public.

Villa College Vice Rector Dr. Ali Najeeb noted that the program has played a role in boosting female participation within the tourism sector. As a large part of the program is conducted in resorts, it serves as an excellent workplace integration program, he said.

He extended gratitude to Universal Foundation and Universal Group for their support towards the program which aims to raise interest in the tourism sector, and train Maldivians to work in the tourism field.

Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr Ali Haidar, in his speech, emphasized the importance of training competent tourism industry workers when Maldives is known globally for its tourism and hospitality.

Discover Hospitality was introduced in 2007. To date, 152 participants have completed the program. Under the program, Villa College conducts the theory lessons, which is followed by practical experience at various Universal resorts.