The Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies (FHTS), The Maldives National University (MNU), hosted the Hotel Asia International Culinary Challenge 2026 from 27–30 September 2026. The competition brought together culinary professionals from Maldivian resorts and participating countries, with more than 700 entries from over 70 resorts.

The event provided a platform for culinary excellence, innovation, professional development and international knowledge sharing, bringing together hospitality industry competitors, FHTS staff and students. It strengthened industry–academia linkages and created opportunities for practical learning, knowledge sharing and capacity building through engagement with culinary professionals and industry practitioners.

The competition provided FHTS staff and students with exposure to professional culinary standards, industry practices and international expertise. This engagement supported experiential learning, skills development, professional development and employability, while strengthening students’ understanding of the world of work.

The event also encouraged innovation, creativity and the exchange of industry best practices, contributing to the development of a skilled hospitality workforce.

As a multi-stakeholder initiative involving academia, the private sector and international participants, the competition demonstrated the value of partnerships, collaboration and international cooperation. It facilitated knowledge and skills transfer, strengthened professional networks and supported global knowledge sharing.

Through the event, FHTS further strengthened MNU’s role as a platform for industry collaboration, international engagement and workforce development.