The Philippine College of Technology (PCT) and DHS Hospitality Academy Malaysia strengthened their partnership through the presentation of the RISE Hospitality Youth Program, an international initiative designed to create educational and professional opportunities for aspiring hospitality and tourism professionals.

The program was introduced during the Orientation on Strategic Academic and Tourism Collaboration held in conjunction with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the two institutions. The agreement formalized a shared commitment to academic cooperation, skills development, industry engagement, and international learning opportunities for students and graduates.

The MOA was signed by Ma. Rossini L. Balili, Ed.D., Chairman and School President of the Philippine College of Technology, and Dr. S. Sri Kumar, President of DHS Hospitality Academy Malaysia. Dr. Kumar also serves as President of the Malaysian Hospitality Association and Founder of the Asia Hospitality Human Resources Association, bringing extensive experience in hospitality education, workforce development, and international industry collaboration.

Present during the signing ceremony were Brian Jacob L. Balili, MBA, Vice President for Administration; Heidi Ivy F. Fabelico, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy; and Marie Julie Ann S. Legaspi, MM-IR, Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management, who joined representatives from both institutions in supporting the partnership and its shared vision for international collaboration in hospitality and tourism education.

Presented by Dr. Kumar, the RISE Hospitality Youth Program aims to empower young individuals through access to hospitality education, professional training, and career development pathways. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity by helping students gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed in an increasingly global hospitality industry.

During the presentation, participants were introduced to potential academic pathways in Malaysia, including diploma, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree programs for qualified applicants. The program also highlighted an Earn and Learn approach that combines academic studies with industry immersion, allowing students to gain practical experience while pursuing their educational goals.

The initiative reflects the broader vision of the partnership between PCT and DHS Hospitality Academy Malaysia, which seeks to foster international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and workforce development within the hospitality and tourism sectors. Through this collaboration, both institutions aim to create opportunities that support student growth, professional advancement, and global industry exposure.

The orientation was attended by academic leaders, faculty members, students, and institutional representatives who gathered to learn more about the opportunities and future initiatives made possible through the partnership.

Through programs such as RISE, PCT continues to expand opportunities for learners by connecting education with international experiences, industry engagement, and pathways for lifelong growth and success.