Aitken Spence Institute of Hotel Management hosts latest graduation ceremony

  The Aitken Spence Institute of Hotel Management held its latest graduation ceremony at Heritance Ahungalla, marking another milestone in its mission to develop skilled professionals for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry.

Established in 2007 as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the institute operates with support from the TUI Care Foundation and World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, providing students with world-class training and career opportunities.

With hotel schools at Heritance Ahungalla and Heritance Kandalama, the institute has graduated over 1,400 students since inception, many of whom have joined Aitken Spence Hotels or pursued further studies.

The 2025 graduating class comprised 46 students, with Ahungalla students specializing in Food & Beverage, while Kandalama graduates focused on Food & Beverage and Professional Cookery. Notably, the Ahungalla batch was all-female, with 21 women completing the training in Food & Beverage.

“By equipping young professionals with the necessary skills and real-world exposure, we are enhancing their career prospects and strengthening Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector,” said Stasshani Jayawardena, Chairperson of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC.

Students receive comprehensive support during their training, including accommodation, meals, uniforms, and a stipend, facilitated by the TUI Academy in collaboration with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance.

The Chief Guest for the ceremony was Shiksha Khemani, Partnership Manager – Asia Pacific, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance.

Source : Hiru News