Radisson Hotel Colombo’s Free Training Courses
Radisson Hotel Colombo has taken a step towards supporting ambitious yet less privileged young individuals by introducing a fully sponsored residential training course. The inaugural batch of trainees has recently completed three months of intensive training in culinary arts and kitchen operations.
This year-long orientation and skill enhancement programme have been meticulously designed to provide beginners with fundamental knowledge and skills across various facets of kitchen operations, the hotel said in a media release.
Manujaya Edirisinghe, Executive Chef of Radisson Hotel Colombo, elaborated on the course structure: "During the first six months, trainees receive a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in kitchen operations and file handling. Given our hotel's seven kitchens, catering to Asian, Western, Sri
Lankan and Indian menus, along with a cold kitchen, bakery, and a special rooftop bar, trainees gain a wide range of experience. The second half of the programme focuses on practical training, and participants receive a stipend during this period."
A selected number of students were chosen for the inaugural programme based on their aspirations and financial backgrounds. Plans are in place to extend this initiative to Radisson Kandy and Radisson Blu Galle, with the goal of supporting a larger number of less privileged youths.
Expressing his gratitude for the life-changing opportunity provided by Radisson Colombo, one trainee said: "I had previously invested a considerable amount of money in a hotel school to study kitchen operations. However, compared to what I am experiencing and learning at Radisson Hotel Colombo, which is entirely free of charge, it feels like I learned almost nothing before. My brother is an expatriate worker, and he is the sole breadwinner of our family. I have harboured a dream of pursuing a career in the hotel industry since childhood, and finally, I have found the right place to realize that dream. The training and support from the management and staff are incredible."
Another trainee from Ganemulla spoke about his family's financial struggles, with both parents currently unable to work due to illness. He stated, "My goal is to enter the hotel industry and support my family. Radisson Hotel Colombo has been an invaluable resource for me. The management and staff have been incredibly kind and supportive. The head chef and the kitchen staff have helped me immensely."
Located in Colombo on Marine Drive, Radisson Hotel Colombo offers top-notch hospitality to both business and leisure travellers, featuring 158 luxury rooms.