On 7 April 2026, the Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies (FHTS), Ms. Zeenath Solih, and the Head of the Hospitality Management Department Ms. Aishath Shirmeen, attended the Starters Program Graduation Ceremony held at at Joy Island Resort.

The Starters Program is an initiative by the Cocoon Collection, designed to nurture and empower young Maldivian talent, implemented across its three Maldivian properties – Cocoon Maldives, Joy Island Maldives, and You & Me Maldives. The ceremony celebrated 24 graduates who successfully completed the six-month program, gaining hands-on experience across key resort departments alongside theoretical learning.

As a guest speaker, the Dean emphasized on the importance of respect, teamwork, and empathy, urging graduates to make full use of the opportunities available to them to reach their true potential, and remain resilient when facing challenges.

She concluded her remarks by addressing the parents of graduates, highlighting the importance of their support in shaping their children’s careers. She noted that many parents, especially of young women, are hesitant about sending their children to resort jobs and training. She urged them to trust their children and give them the opportunity to learn and grow, reflecting on her own experience as a woman, wife, and mother who received the support she needed to continue working in the industry.

The event was also attended by chief guests and representatives from other academic institutions in the Maldives. The ceremony marked a proud milestone for the graduates as they begin their promising careers.