Welcoming the Class of 2022 for the Four Seasons Maldives Apprenticeship Program
Sunday 6th of June 2021
The Maldives’ first Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) certified Apprenticeship scheme at the Four Seasons Maldives Resorts is the longest running apprenticeships of its kind in the Indian Ocean. It was recognized by the government in 2010 in the Maldives, and is reputed as a dedicated course providing enthusiastic Maldivian youngsters with the expertise required to excel as professionals in the hospitality industry. To date, the total number of graduates stands at 651 since the program’s inception in 2001.
The program is open for 17 to 20-year-olds, allowing them the valuable opportunity to study and gain hands-on experience in the field simultaneously. The disciplines available include Food & Beverage Preparation or Service, Safe Maritime Transport, Housekeeping & Guest Services, PADI Dive Master, Water Sports Attendant, Marine Biology plus 2021’s two new disciplines for second year apprentices: Front Office & Recreation Attendant and Safe Maritime Transport & Boat Mechanic.
On June 3, 2021, the Class of 2022 was welcomed to the program in a a virtual inauguration ceremony, held simultaneously at both Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru. With 12 and 32 apprentices for each resort respectively, a total of 44 new intakes were celebrated this year. This number is slightly less compared to the previous years, but promising despite missing an intake year in the unusual 2020.
The ceremony was graced by the Guest of Honor, His Excellency the Ambassador to Belgium and Head of Mission to the European Union, Mr. Hassan Sobir who called in from Brussels, Belgium. Since honoring the very first graduation ceremony of the program 21 years ago, H.E. Mr. Hassan Sobir has remained a close supporter of the program. He was joined by Four Seasons Resorts Maldives Regional Vice President, Armando Kraenzlin, who encouraged the new apprentices on the need to be nimble and agile in these ever-changing times and adapt to the industry’s challenging demands.
The Apprenticeship Program remains strong in its fundamental goals remain as steadfast as they have for two decades: to develop technical skills; to impart professional and general knowledge, and to coach mindsets, attitudes, values and behaviors.
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.