The tourism industries of Bahrain and France are set for a bilateral boost, thanks to a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Vatel Hotel & Tourism Business School Bahrain and EKLYA School of Business in France. This agreement paves the way for a student exchange program, fostering academic and cultural exchange between the two nations.
The MoU, signed on March 17, 2024, in Lyon, France, signifies a commitment from both institutions to strengthen educational ties and enhance understanding in the realms of tourism, hospitality, and knowledge sharing. The student exchange program is the centerpiece of this collaboration, offering students from both schools the chance to broaden their horizons by experiencing a different educational and cultural environment.
Bahrain's Vatel Hotel & Tourism Business School, a well-respected name in hospitality education, boasts a curriculum aligned with international standards. Students at EKLYA School of Business, known for its strong focus on business administration, will gain valuable insights into the unique business landscape of the Gulf region, with a particular emphasis on Bahrain's thriving tourism sector.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the program, Dr. Abdulrahman Jassim, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), highlighted the MoU's potential to enrich the educational experience for participating students. He emphasized the "compelling learning journey" that awaits EKLYA students in Bahrain, praising the country's one-of-a-kind business environment.
Sharing Dr. Jassim's optimism, Sebastian Arcos, Director of EKLYA School of Business, hailed the MoU as a significant development. He underscored the importance of allowing his students to explore the business ecosystems of the Gulf region, with a specific focus on Bahrain. Arcos expressed his confidence that the exchange program will deliver on its objectives, providing students with a well-rounded educational, academic, and cultural experience.
This collaboration between Bahrain and France transcends the realm of education. It represents a broader effort to strengthen bilateral relations and forge deeper cultural understanding. The exchange program will allow students to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and vibrant cultures of both countries, fostering lifelong connections and promoting mutual respect.
The MoU between Vatel Bahrain and EKLYA is a significant step forward for tourism education on a global scale. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, this initiative has the potential to equip future tourism professionals with the skills and expertise necessary to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the industry. The program's success will be closely monitored, paving the way for similar partnerships between educational institutions around the world.