Fourth Batch of Discover Hospitality Program Graduates Receive Certificates

The latest phase of the Discover Hospitality program, an initiative supported by the Universal Foundation and conducted in partnership with Villa College, has reached a significant milestone with the certification of its fourth batch of participants. 

The primary aim of this program remains the training and empowerment of young individuals who aspire to forge careers within the dynamic realm of the tourism sector, fostering prospects for their growth and advancement.

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Since its inception in 2017, the program has successfully nurtured and equipped a total of 103 young individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the hospitality industry. This comprehensive training has culminated in the attainment of Certificate 3 in Hospitality from Villa College. 

Over 80 percent of program graduates have seamlessly transitioned into diverse roles across the sector, contributing their expertise to the realm of tourism. These participants hail from various communities within Maldives, encompassing both male and female aspirants.

The Certificate 3 in Hospitality course, spanning four months, offers a holistic curriculum. The theoretical components are delivered at Villa College’s Male’ Campus, complemented by practical exposure gained at Universal Resorts. Within this framework, students receive hands-on training across essential domains including front office operations, housekeeping, and food and beverage services. Each participating student receives a monthly stipend of MVR 3000 from the hosting resort where their practical training takes place.

The ceremony held on Tuesday evening, August 15, 2023, at the Manhattan Business Hotel marked a significant moment as 37 graduates from the program’s fourth batch were awarded their certificates. Concurrently, the commencement of the program’s fifth batch was celebrated. 

The presence of Dr. Abdullah Maumoon, Minister of Tourism, as the chief guest, lent an air of prestige to the event. Among the esteemed attendees were notable figures such as Mohammed Umar Manik, Chairman of Universal Enterprises, Dr. Ahmed Anwar, Rector of Villa College, representatives from Universal Enterprises and Universal Resorts, as well as the parents of the participating students.

Chairman Mohamed Umar Manik expressed his satisfaction with the collaborative approach between the Universal Foundation, Villa College, and Universal Enterprises. Emphasising its efficacy, he highlighted the program’s overarching goal of enhancing employability prospects within the tourism sector, thus ensuring sustainable opportunities for the youth.

Dr. Abdullah Maumoon, in his address, underscored the government’s aspiration to witness an influx of skilled individuals, likened to Dhanvantaris, assuming leadership roles within the tourism sector. The Discover Hospitality program emerges as a pivotal avenue for today’s youth to propel themselves towards success. The minister’s optimism for these emerging talents to occupy prominent positions within the industry resonated strongly.

The Universal Foundation, a voluntary organization funded by Universal Enterprises, stands as a testament to the commitment of supporting education and empowerment. In addition to the Discover Hospitality program, the foundation has awarded over 100 scholarships, both domestically and internationally, across various fields of expertise. 

Noteworthy among these are scholarships designed to train specialist doctors, with 51 medical professionals having successfully completed their studies under this initiative thus far.