Universal Foundation marks graduation of fifth batch of Discover Hospitality programme

Universal Foundation, in collaboration with Villa College, marked the graduation of the fifth batch of the Discover Hospitality programme and the welcoming of the sixth batch on Monday. This programme continues to provide Maldivians with the skills and opportunities to excel in the burgeoning tourism sector.

The ceremony, held at Meerumaa Hall, began with Iyaz Waheed, President of Universal Foundation, delivering the welcome and introductory remarks. He emphasised the program’s impact and Universal Foundation’s long-standing commitment to developing local talent. Waheed highlighted Universal’s history of investing in people, dating back over 25 years, and shared his own inspirational journey from receiving a scholarship to becoming a key figure in the industry.

The Discover Hospitality programme is a youth internship initiative by Universal Foundation in association with Villa College and Universal Resorts. It is not a one-off CSR event but a consistent effort to change lives, reflecting Universal Foundation’s mission to support and foster a wider community through education, health, and community care. Since its inception six years ago, the program has seen 129 youth complete their training, with 80% currently working in the industry. Notably, the program has encouraged the participation of girls, with 20% of graduates being female, and the new batch setting a record with 45% female participants.

Dr Ali Najeeb, Vice Rector of Villa College, addressing the audience, he celebrated the graduation of the fifth batch and the enrolment of the sixth, noting that 129 students have graduated from the program to date, with an impressive 80% currently employed in the industry and 15% pursuing further education. He also outlined Villa College’s post-COVID pivot to vocational training in hospitality, emphasising the college’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities in this vital sector.

Mahmoud Abdelazim, Director of Learning and Development at Universal Resorts, spoke about the foundational support and opportunities provided by the Discover Hospitality programme. He underscored the importance of leadership skills and practical training in preparing students for mid-management roles, urging graduates to love their work and embrace lifelong learning.

The event featured a dynamic panel discussion with industry leaders:

• Ahmed Faiz, HR Manager, Dhigali Maldives
• Hassan Zahir, Resident Manager, Baros Maldives
• Husham Rasheed, F&B Manager, Kurumba Maldives
• Zahuwa Ziyadh, Airport Supervisor, Milaidhoo Maldives

The panelists shared personal stories and insights into the evolving landscape of hospitality in the Maldives, addressing topics from job opportunities to overcoming gender stereotypes in the industry. They encouraged students to explore diverse roles within hospitality, from culinary arts to security, and emphasised the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

The ceremony continued with the awarding of sponsorship letters to the sixth batch by Ahmed Anwar, Rector of Villa College, and Shuhan Ahmed, Director of Operations at Universal Resorts. The graduates of the fifth batch were presented with their certificates by 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 greater participation of Maldivians in this sector.

In his closing remarks, Shafeeu highlighted the importance of building a skilled local workforce in the tourism industry, which is the largest employment sector in the Maldives. He emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives like the Discover Hospitality program, which aligns with national goals for education and employment. Shafeeu urged graduates to be ambassadors for the hospitality industry and to inspire their peers to join this rewarding field. He also addressed the critical role that consistent government support and collaboration with organisations like Universal Foundation play in the sustainable development of the Maldives’ workforce.

Universal Foundation works directly and in partnership with both private and public organisations to sustain and develop programs that enhance the channels through which Maldivians can expand their opportunities. The Foundation’s mission is to support and foster a wider community to connect through mutual aspirations, alleviating challenges related to education, health, and community care.

The success of the Discover Hospitality programme is a testament to the dedication of many individuals and organisations. The programme’s achievements reflect Universal Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering local talent and strengthening 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 commitment to fostering local talent and strengthening the Maldives’ tourism industry through quality education and training.