Haigazian University and the International Hotels Group (IHG), consisting of Hotel Phoenicia InterContinental-Beirut and Le Vendome InterContinental-Beirut and its subsidiaries, signed an agreement through the IHG Academy Programme; a community programme designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills and improve their employment prospects.
The signing of the agreement – led by the Haigazian University President, Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian and the General Manager of the Hotels, Mrs. Dagmar Symes- took place on Wednesday 9 May, 2018, in the premises of the Phoenicia InterContinental Hotel, in the presence of representatives from both parties.
Through the IHG Academy Agreement, “students will have the chance to improve their hospitality skills and unleash their talents, through innovation and continuous learning”, stated Mohamad Azakir, the HR Manager of Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel.
In his remarks, President Haidostian shared the rich cultural heritage and symbolism of Haigazian University and the Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel, considering them as “vital landmarks in the Ras Beirut neighborhood cluster that does much good to society and could do more”. Haidostian also emphasized on the importance of training, as an essential element for ongoing success.
For his part, Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration and Economics at Haigazian University, Dr. Fadi Asrawi, shared the common areas of excellence of both parties, each in its field and sector. “While Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel enjoys decades of hospitality excellence and is committed to growth and much more unforgettable experiences, Haigazian University, with its decades of educational excellence, continues to prepare students for leadership roles in today’s ever-changing and fast –paced business world’, said Asrawi.
General Manager of both hotels, Dagmar Symes expressed her pride in partnering with Haigazian University, as both parties share common values and outlook. Symes put significant emphasis on “talent”, as an essential characteristic of the new generation recruits. Describing the new generation as “achievement oriented, challenge seekers with high expectations”, Symes conveyed her readiness, through this newly-signed agreement, to take up the challenge and welcome those talents inhouse.
Mira Yardemian
Public Relations Director