News - 03-Mar-05
The inaugural class of the Shinta Mani Institute of Hospitality in Siem Reap, Cambodia graduated at the end of February 2005, after completing the 9 month course in hospitality studies.
Twenty one students were presented with their graduation certificates by the owner & founder of the Institute, Mr. Sokoun Chanpreda and the General Manager of Shinta Mani, Mr Arif Billah.
The Institute is proud to announce that all students have now been placed in jobs at the soon to be opened five-star Hôtel de la Paix and other hotels in Siem Reap. This immediate job placement is a reflection of the high standards achieved by the course which focuses on core studies including English, and operational activities within all departments of a hotel.
From time to time even guests of Shinta Mani interact with the students - passing on life experience and mentoring support.
Officially opened on June 7, 2004, the Shinta Mani Hotel and Institute of Hospitality is a vocational training facility funded from the operations of the hotel as well as from private individuals. The students are selected by various local NGOs in consultation with the management of the school and all are orphans or young Cambodians at risk
Besides paying no fees each student is paid a monthly stipend, uniforms, meals, study materials and a weekly supply of 4 kilograms of rice for their families.
In accepting his graduation certificate, outstanding all round student Mr. Sophea Noreak, 21, spoke on behalf of his fellow classmates as follows: "Getting good education was a dream, to all of us, until the Shinta Mani Hotel and Institute of Hospitality opened in June 2004. When we were selected to get free education by Shinta Mani, we were so happy that finally our dreams have come true. We all have commitment as the first class of graduating students to remain involved in the school providing support and guidance to future students".
In addition to its own funding, the new Shinta Mani website www.shintamani.com provides the public with an opportunity to contribute to funding of the school and other local community projects in Siem Reap. An additional USD 5 is donated from every booking made directly to the hotel via the website, as well as direct donations.
The second class of students will commence in 9th of March 2005 and the school has longer term plans to expand the number of students who complete each intake.