Marriott International Empowers Maldivian Youth Through Apprenticeship Program Graduation

Wednesday 20th of March 2024

Marriott International Maldives proudly hosted the graduation ceremony for its inaugural class of apprentices on March 16, 2024, at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. The event, graced by the presence of Honorable Ibrahim Waheed, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, commemorated the achievements of the first cohort of apprentices from the Marriott International Maldives Apprenticeship Program. Alongside the Minister, senior executives including Gautam Bhandari, Senior Vice President of Hotel Development & Operations, Marriott International, and Mark Fletcher, Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore & Maldives, Marriott International, were present to applaud the graduates.

Launched in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT), the Marriott International Maldives Apprenticeship Program commenced its journey as a pilot initiative on May 9, 2023. This groundbreaking collaboration marked Marriott International as the pioneer international hospitality brand to engage with the Maldivian government's apprenticeship program.

The program's structure encompassed theoretical education delivered by MIT, complemented by hands-on experience across various departments within Marriott International's Maldivian resort portfolio. The graduation ceremony honored 43 young apprentices who successfully completed the rigorous 10-month program and were awarded Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) approved level-3 certification. This initiative not only identifies local talent but also empowers marginalized youth by equipping them with essential skills for success in the vibrant tourism industry of the Maldives.

Honorable Ibrahim Waheed commended the program's dedication to nurturing youth talent within the hospitality sector, emphasizing its role in promoting professional development and empowerment. Gautam Bhandari reiterated Marriott International's commitment to fostering local talent and providing rewarding career opportunities for graduates.

The graduation ceremony represents a significant milestone in Marriott International's endeavor to build a sustainable talent pipeline in the Maldives' hospitality industry. As the graduates embark on their promising careers, Marriott International remains dedicated to their continued success and development, ensuring a brighter future for the youth of Maldives.