Marriott Maldives Apprenticeship Programme marks third cohort graduation
Marriott International in the Maldives has celebrated the graduation of 40 apprentices from the Class of 2026 of the Marriott International Maldives Apprenticeship Programme (MIMAP), developed in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT).
The ceremony was attended by Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal, who represented the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, Abdulla Rafiu. Representatives from the ministry and MIT also attended the event.
The graduation marked the completion of the programme’s third cohort and highlighted Marriott International’s continued commitment to developing local talent, supporting future hospitality professionals, and creating career pathways for Maldivians within the company and the wider tourism industry.
A total of 40 apprentices graduated across five disciplines: front office, housekeeping, food and beverage service, culinary, and electrical installation and maintenance. The graduates completed a programme combining practical, on-the-job training with structured learning, equipping them with the skills and experience required to pursue careers in hospitality and resort operations.
Launched in 2023, MIMAP has continued to grow, attracting more than 500 applications and engaging 171 apprentices to date, including 73 in the latest intake. The programme has produced 74 graduates who have gone on to pursue careers in hospitality and related fields. Its continued expansion reflects Marriott International’s investment in local communities and its efforts to develop a pipeline of skilled talent for the Maldives’ hospitality sector.
The apprentices completed the theoretical component of the curriculum at the Maldives Institute of Technology before gaining practical experience across various disciplines at Marriott International’s portfolio of resorts in the Maldives. These include The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; W Maldives; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa; JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort; Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa; Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.
In his remarks, Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal encouraged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning and remain committed to personal and professional growth. He highlighted the importance of perseverance, work ethic, and resilience, noting that their achievements contribute to the progress of their families, communities, and the nation.
“We proudly celebrated another important milestone with the graduation of 40 apprentices, a success that goes beyond the numbers and is reflected in the skills, confidence, and growth of our apprentices, as well as the opportunities the programme continues to create for Maldivian youth,” said Amila Handunwala, Chair of Marriott Maldives Business Council and General Manager of W Maldives.
“This achievement reflects Marriott International’s commitment to developing local talent through strong partnerships. We thank our government partners, the Maldives Institute of Technology, and our Marriott leaders for their continued support in shaping the next generation of hospitality professionals.”
