Merging the realms of industry and academia helps us facilitate our students’ transition from university to the real world.
In another instance of strengthening industry collaboration, QIU signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ParkRoyal Langkawi Resort (PARKROYAL), which is part of Pan Pacific Hotels Group (PPHG), a global leader in hospitality. PPHG owns and/or manages over 50 hotels, resorts, and serviced suites across three brands—Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, and PARKROYAL—in more than 30 cities across Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe.
This partnership aims to create new opportunities for students and enhance industry engagement in hospitality education. Present for the MoU exchange was Nicholas Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Global Integrated Training Associates (GITA), and Sharifah Nur Atikah, Learning and Development Manager of ParkRoyal Langkawi Resort (PARKROYAL).
The MoU outlines several key areas of collaboration, including the development and delivery of short courses and training programs. These will cover a wide range of topics, including workplace health and safety, and the provision of meaningful work assignments that complement QIU’s academic curriculum. The agreement also includes provisions for co-supervising both undergraduate and postgraduate students, enhancing the practical and academic learning experience for QIU students.
In terms of research and development, the collaboration will focus on joint formulation of strategies and innovation, ensuring both parties contribute expertise and resources to future R&D projects. Opportunities for joint publications and the exchange of knowledge will further strengthen this partnership.
Additionally, QIU and ParkRoyal Langkawi Resort will work together to co-organize exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and other events, fostering further collaboration between academia and industry. Both institutions will also jointly develop and review short courses and training programmes that meet industry standards, along with a tailored selection process for suitable candidates.
The MoU also covers academic and professional development activities, such as work-based learning programs, industry exposure visits, and student mobility initiatives, including internships and study visits. The partnership aims to offer QIU students valuable real-world experiences, while providing industry professionals from both institutions with opportunities for continuous professional development.
Finally, the MoU allows for the exploration of other mutually beneficial areas of cooperation, ensuring a dynamic and responsive partnership that evolves with the needs of education and industry.
On the same day, our students also attended a talk by Parkroyal Langkawi Resort’s Ms. Sharifah, who gave students a peek into the world of 5-star hospitality at the resort. She spoke about the vast range of services on offer as well as the diverse opportunities they would have as Front Office, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, Sales & Marketing, and Spa & Wellness interns and staff.
This collaboration marks a significant step in QIU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its industry ties and expand its academic network, enhancing opportunities for students and professionals alike. To our new partner, the QIU family welcomes you!
