Male’, Maldives, 17th July 2024 – Universal Foundation, in collaboration with Villa College, celebrated the graduation of the fifth batch of the Discover Hospitality programme and welcomed the sixth batch during a ceremony held at Meerumaa Hall on Monday. This initiative continues to empower Maldivians with the skills and opportunities needed to excel in the thriving tourism sector.
The event commenced with opening remarks from Iyaz Waheed, President of Universal Foundation. He highlighted the program’s impact and the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing local talent. Waheed reflected on Universal’s 25-year history of investing in people and shared his personal journey from scholarship recipient to industry leader.
The Discover Hospitality programme, a youth internship initiative by Universal Foundation in partnership with Villa College and Universal Resorts, is more than a CSR event. It embodies Universal Foundation’s mission to support and foster the community through education, health, and care initiatives. Since its launch six years ago, 129 youth have completed the program, with 80% currently employed in the industry. The program also emphasizes gender inclusion, with 20% of graduates being female and the new batch featuring a record 45% female participants.
Dr. Ali Najeeb, Vice Rector of Villa College, celebrated the achievements of the fifth batch and welcomed the sixth. He noted the impressive statistics: 129 graduates to date, with 80% working in the industry and 15% pursuing further education. Dr. Najeeb highlighted Villa College’s shift to vocational training in hospitality post-COVID, underscoring the college’s dedication to expanding educational opportunities in this crucial sector.
Mahmoud Abdelazim, Director of Learning and Development at Universal Resorts, spoke on the importance of leadership skills and practical training. He urged graduates to embrace lifelong learning and find joy in their work, preparing them for mid-management roles in the hospitality industry.
The event featured a panel discussion with industry leaders: Ahmed Faiz, HR Manager, Dhigali Maldives; Hassan Zahir, Resident Manager, Baros Maldives; Husham Rasheed, F&B Manager, Kurumba Maldives; and Zahuwa Ziyadh, Airport Supervisor, Milaidhoo Maldives. The panelists shared personal experiences and insights into the evolving hospitality landscape in the Maldives. They discussed job opportunities, overcoming gender stereotypes, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.
Sponsorship letters for the sixth batch were presented by Ahmed Anwar, Rector of Villa College, and Shuhan Ahmed, Director of Operations at Universal Resorts. The graduates of the fifth batch received their certificates from the Chief Guest, Ahmed Shafeeu, Minister of State for Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development. Shafeeu congratulated the graduates, acknowledged the program’s contribution to the tourism industry, and called for increased Maldivian participation in the sector.
In his closing remarks, Shafeeu emphasized the importance of developing a skilled local workforce in the Maldives’ largest employment sector. He highlighted the government’s support for initiatives like the Discover Hospitality programme, aligning with national education and employment goals. Shafeeu encouraged graduates to serve as ambassadors for the hospitality industry and inspire others to join this rewarding field. He also stressed the critical role of government support and collaboration with organizations like Universal Foundation in the sustainable development of the Maldivian workforce.
Universal Foundation’s commitment to enhancing opportunities for Maldivians is evident through its partnerships with private and public organizations. The success of the Discover Hospitality programme showcases the dedication of many individuals and organizations, reflecting Universal Foundation’s ongoing mission to foster local talent and strengthen the Maldives’ tourism industry through quality education and training.
The ceremony concluded with a group photo and refreshments, celebrating the achievements of the graduates and the promise of new beginnings for the incoming batch. Hosted by Universal Foundation, this event underscores the foundation’s dedication to fostering local talent and advancing the Maldives’ tourism sector through comprehensive education and training programs.
