Đà Nẵng, May 6, 2025 – A significant milestone in enhancing the quality of Vietnam’s tourism workforce was marked as IBH Hospitality Training Academy, a strategic partner of the Swiss Tourism for Sustainable Development in Vietnam (ST4SD) project, held the launch ceremony for the Swiss EHT Hospitality and Tourism Management Training Program on the afternoon of May 6, 2025. The event took place at the ICP International Convention Center – Furama Resort Đà Nẵng, attended by Ms. Đặng Phương Anh, Manager of the Human Resource Development for Vietnam’s Tourism Sector Component of the ST4SD project, along with prominent industry leaders and experts. The ceremony drew over 300 staff members from the Furama – Ariyana Đà Nẵng Resort Complex.
A New Step in Developing Tourism Human Resources for Central Vietnam
The ST4SD project, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism in Vietnam, prioritizes building a skilled and globally competitive workforce. The Swiss EHT program, developed in collaboration with École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) – one of the world’s leading hospitality management schools – is a cornerstone of this mission. The program introduces Swiss training standards, equipping Vietnamese professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic tourism and hospitality sector.
During the event, Ms. Đặng Phương Anh shared insights about the ST4SD project and the Swiss EHT program, emphasizing its goal of training a new generation of tourism professionals who meet international standards. “Swiss EHT is not just about training; it’s about transforming mindsets and empowering individuals to drive sustainable growth in Vietnam’s tourism industry,” she stated.
Addressing the Demand for Skilled Tourism Professionals in Central Vietnam and Beyond
The launch event was organized in collaboration with the Furama – Ariyana Đà Nẵng Resort Complex, a major player in the region’s hospitality industry. Notable attendees included Mr. Nguyễn Đức Quỳnh, General Director of Bắc Mỹ An Tourism Joint Stock Company, and Mr. Andre Piere, General Director of the Furama – Ariyana Đà Nẵng Resort Complex.
Experts from IBH Academy presented a tailored training plan for the resort’s staff, designed to enhance their expertise and prepare them for mid- and senior-level management roles. An interactive Q&A session allowed participants to seek clarification, with ST4SD and IBH Academy representatives providing detailed responses on the program’s curriculum, training roadmap, teaching methods, and certification details.
A Milestone for Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam
The launch of the Swiss EHT program at IBH Hospitality Training Academy represents a key advancement in the ST4SD project’s Human Resource Development Component. By investing in people – the core of the tourism industry – the project is laying a foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth. For the Furama – Ariyana Đà Nẵng Resort Complex, this initiative underscores a strategic commitment to talent development, delivering long-term benefits for both the enterprise and the broader community.
“This is a proud moment for ST4SD,” Ms. Đặng Phương Anh shared. “Through our collaboration with IBH Academy and EHL, we are not only enhancing skills but also creating opportunities for Vietnamese professionals to shine on the global stage.”
Looking to the Future
In its pilot phase, ST4SD has partnered with four diverse training institutions across Vietnam to implement the Swiss EHT program:
- National Economics University (a public university in Hà Nội),
- IBH Hospitality Training Academy (a vocational school under a private enterprise in Đà Nẵng),
- Van Lang University (a private university in Hồ Chí Minh City),
- Saigon Tourism College (a public vocational college in Hồ Chí Minh City).
This selection ensures diversity in regions and training models, creating a nationwide impact. Representatives from these institutions have undergone hands-on skill-building exercises guided by EHL experts and have received EHL certification, qualifying them as official trainers for the Swiss EHT program in Vietnam.
The Swiss EHT program is part of ST4SD’s broader vision to strengthen Vietnam’s tourism industry. Following the pilot phase, the project will expand its reach, collaborating with additional institutions and partners to deliver high-quality training. With EHL’s expertise and the dedication of local stakeholders, ST4SD is paving the way for a more sustainable future for Vietnamese tourism.
About ST4SD
The Swiss Tourism for Sustainable Development in Vietnam (ST4SD) project, funded by the Swiss Government through the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and implemented by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT) in collaboration with partners HELVETAS and CRED, aims to promote sustainable tourism practices, enhance workforce capabilities, and foster inclusive growth in Vietnam’s tourism sector.
About IBH Hospitality Training Academy
Located in Đà Nẵng, IBH Hospitality Training Academy is a leading vocational training institution dedicated to developing skilled professionals for Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality industry, focusing on international standards and practical expertise.
About EHL
Founded in 1893 as École Hôtelière de Lausanne, EHL is globally recognized as the world’s top hospitality management school, renowned for its innovative curriculum, rigorous training, and commitment to excellence in hospitality education.