20th Four Seasons Maldives Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony Highlights Ongoing Dedication to Social Investment

54 graduates (18 from Kuda Huraa and 36 from Landaa Giraavaru) raised their diplomas during a graduation ceremony held at Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru respectively, ready to launch into a hospitality career.

These 54 rising stars of the Maldivian hospitality industry take the total number of graduates to 651 since the program’s inception in 2001, with 2020 marking the 20^th anniversary of the program, making it one of the most successful and long-running of its kind in the Indian Ocean.

In previous years, the graduation ceremony has been held in Malé’s Dharubaruuge Exhibition Hall for graduates from both Resorts. Due to the current restrictions, however, each Resort held a separate event. Both classes of graduates were surprised by guest of honour, His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to the European Union, Mr. Hassan Sobir, who appeared via video link. A supporter of the program since its inception, H.E. Mr. Hassan Sobir was also guest of honour at the program’s first graduation ceremony 20 years ago.

“For two decades, we have proudly invested in local talent. So many young men and women have become and will become the backbone of the Maldivian hospitality industry in years to come thanks to this Apprenticeship Program,” shares Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Regional Vice President Armando Kraenzlin. “In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to keep investing in the future of the Maldivian island communities. This is to ensure the youth have the training, skills and qualifications necessary to secure future jobs not only when the travel industry rebounds but for the long-term success and longevity of the Maldivian hospitality industry as a whole”.

Aimed at 17-20 year olds, the government accredited Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Apprenticeship Program equips enthusiastic Maldivian youngsters with the expertise required to excel in the industry.  

Whilst living, studying and working onsite at Four Seasons two resort islands of Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru, apprentices gain hands-on experience in their chosen discipline: Food & Beverage Preparation or Service, Safe Maritime Transport, Housekeeping & Guest Services, PADI Dive Master, Water Sports Attendant, Marine Biology, Engineering (2^nd year) and Front Office (2^nd year).  

The program is open to male and female Maldivians who meet a number of entry criteria including O-level certifications and fluency in both written and spoken English.  No previous work experience is required and apprentices are recruited from throughout the country for the fully funded course, recognised in 2010 as the Maldives’ first TVET certified Apprenticeship scheme. Through a combination of intensive practical on-the-job training and regular classroom sessions, apprentices are trained to become solid professionals in their vocational field.