Marriott International Maldives in collaboration with the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT) launched the country’s first Laundry Certification Programme. Approved by the Maldives National Skills Development Authority (MNSDA), the programme was initiated to train local talent in the hospitality laundry operations and to maintain the highest hygiene standards with priority on guest safety and brand standards.
The partnership with MIT was a natural fit with Marriott International’s promise of ‘Putting People First’ and its focus on training, retaining and growing local talent, according to the hospitality group.
The programme is also extended to locals from the islands of Maafushi and Gulhi pursuing career growth opportunities in hospitality laundry operations.
The programme enrolled 21 local associates from Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of seven resorts in the Maldives and was delivered by MIT with inputs from laundry leaders from these resorts. The course was primarily focused on developing the laundry operational skills of local talents. The sessions were delivered by laundry leaders of the resorts and headed by faculty from MIT. The certification program was conducted over four months, with regular virtual theory sessions and physical practical sessions conducted at the respective resorts.
In order to get the participants ready for the final examination, pre-assessment exams were conducted at the respective resorts, which comprised of two parts; written paper and viva examinations spearheaded by Learning & Development leaders at the respective resorts. All participants were then invited to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa for the Final assessments, organised under the supervision of a Chief Invigilator nominated from MNSDA.
Marriott International and MIT, along with MNSDA, are positive about the success of this certification program in training locals who wish to pursue a career in hospitality and laundry operations. According to Marriott International, the collaboration marks another step in its efforts to put people first, invest in the local communities, and foster growth opportunities for local talent.
