Swiss-Belhotel International took a significant step by joining forces with the Pacific International Hotel Management School (PIHMS) from New Zealand, VNU University of Economics and Business (UEB), and Hai Phong College of Tourism in an MOU Signing Ceremony in Hanoi, 31 October 2024. This landmark MOU signing ceremony, facilitated by NZiFOCUS, underscores Swiss-Belhotel International’s commitment to fostering practical hospitality training for Vietnamese students and strengthening cross-cultural educational ties. The event commenced at UEB and concluded with a networking reception at Epic Tower Swiss-Belresidences Hanoi, fostering an engaging platform for dialogue among hospitality leaders, academics, and students.
The signing ceremony brought together notable figures, including New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam Caroline Beresford, PIHMS Deputy Director James Cunningham, NZiFOCUS Director Nga Blanchard, Hai Phong College of Tourism Principal Mr. Pham Van Long, and Swiss-Belhotel International’s Edward J. L. Faull, Executive Director, Senior Vice President of Group Technical Services & Projects, and Senior Vice President of Operations & Development for Vietnam. Distinguished representatives from UEB were also present, including Assoc. Prof. Ph.D. Nguyen Truc Le, Chairman of the University Council, Assoc. Prof. Ph.D. Le Trung Thanh, Rector, and Assoc. Prof. Ph.D. Nguyen Anh Thu, Vice Rector. This MOU formalizes a multi-dimensional collaboration, including a 6-month operational skills training program developed by Swiss-Belhotel International. The program provides PIHMS students at UEB and Hai Phong College of Tourism with immersive, hands-on experience at Swiss-Belhotel International properties throughout the Asia-Pacific region. This collaboration offers students not only the chance to gain practical skills in a live hospitality setting but also access to career mentorship and real-world exposure to international standards.
Swiss-Belhotel International, under the visionary leadership of President and Chairman, Gavin Maxwell Faull, brings a legacy of innovation in hospitality education. Mr. Faull, who played a pivotal role in co-founding PIHMS, laid the foundation for hospitality training by leveraging Swiss hospitality expertise and rigorous operational standards, which have since shaped PIHMS into a renowned institution across Australasia. His journey into the hotel school sector began with a fortuitous encounter, igniting a lifelong passion for equipping future hospitality leaders with essential knowledge and hands-on experience.
Beyond academic training, this partnership introduces hands-on opportunities such as joint internships, co-hosted workshops, and industry events. These programs are designed to connect Vietnam’s growing tourism sector with New Zealand’s hospitality expertise, giving students valuable international exposure and networking opportunities.
In alignment with the 50th anniversary of New Zealand-Vietnam diplomatic relations in 2025, this collaboration reaffirms both nations' commitment to educational excellence, sustainable development, and cross-border cooperation. Together, Swiss-Belhotel International, PIHMS, UEB, and Hai Phong College of Tourism are preparing Vietnamese students to thrive in a global hospitality landscape, enriching both the students' futures and the industry at large. This partnership stands as a testament to Swiss-Belhotel International’s dedication to shaping the next generation of hospitality leaders, building bridges between New Zealand and Vietnam, and advancing Mr. Faull’s vision for cross-cultural learning and professional excellence.
For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com