Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signed Between The Maldives National University – Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies and Finolhu Seaside Maldives

The Maldives National University – Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies and Finolhu Seaside Maldives came together on November 29, 2023, to formally establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This is a significant step towards improving the educational and professional prospects of students in the field of hospitality and tourism. The MOU promises to create impactful opportunities for both professionals and students in the thriving tourism industry of the Maldives.

The signing of the MOU, which took place at The Maldives National University, was a historic event that signaled the start of a cooperative relationship between the prestigious hotel chain and the esteemed academic institution. Key figures from both organizations, including the Vice Chancellor Ms. Aishath Shehenaz Adam, Dean of FHTS Ms. Zeenath Solih, General Manager of Seaside Finolhu Maldives, Mr. Steven Phillips and staff members of both organisations attended the signing ceremony.

With the help of this cooperation, students will have access to invaluable possibilities for practical learning, career development, and industry experience, helping to close the gap between academia and industry. Students at The Maldives National University’s Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies will benefit from this partnership by having the opportunity to obtain real-world experience, internships, and possibly even jobs at Finolhu Seaside Maldives, a well-known company in the Maldives hospitality industry that is renowned for its dedication to providing exceptional hospitality.

The creation of an organized work placement program that will allow students to fully immerse themselves in the day-to-day operations of a prestigious hospitality institution is one of the MOU’s main highlights. Their academic learning will be enhanced by this practical experience, which will also provide students with the information and abilities needed to succeed in the ever-changing hospitality sector. Additionally, the collaboration and sharing of knowledge between the professionals of Finolhu Seaside Maldives and the faculty and staff of The Maldives National University would be facilitated by the agreement. This knowledge and insight sharing will help the university’s curriculum to keep improving and staying in line with the changing demands and trends of the business.

Speaking during the function, representatives from the two institutions highlighted the advantages for both parties of the partnership and conveyed their excitement for it. The coordinator of work placement and lecturer at the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies, Mr. Moosa Iyad, stressed the value of industry-academia collaborations in producing graduates who are well-rounded and prepared for the workforce. According to him, the collaboration is a big step toward improving our students’ educational experiences and getting them ready for jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry. Working together with Seaside Finolhu Maldives is a testament to our commitment to giving our kids the finest opportunity available. Likewise, the General Manager of Seaside Finolhu Maldives, Mr. Steven Phillips articulated their commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals and expressed their confidence in the partnership to contribute to the industry’s talent pool. The general manager highlighted their dedication to providing mentorship, training and career pathways for students, underscoring the establishment’s role as a catalyst for professional growth and development. 

The MOU signing between The Maldives National University – Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies and Finolhu Seaside Maldives marks a significant moment in the advancement of educational and professional opportunities for students in the Maldives. The collaborative efforts of these two institutions are a testament to the power of partnerships in shaping the future of the hospitality and tourism industry, fostering innovation, and nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.