The School

Based in Antsirabé, ESSVA is a professional university recognized by the Malagasy state and aligned with the country’s economic needs. It offers six bachelor-level programs over three years: communication and journalism, management and administration, teaching, electromechanics, hospitality and catering, and eco-tourism. With over 1,000 students, ESSVA prepares skilled technicians for the local job market, and more than 100 graduates are employed annually across Madagascar. Since 2017, the university also offers a Master's in Sustainable Development. Among these initiatives, the Bourse Clara Blanc supports promising students facing financial difficulties. 

Partner: Fondation Avenir Madagascar (FAM)

The Fondation Avenir Madagascar (FAM), established in 2002 by former Swiss journalist José Ribeaud, is a non-political and secular organization recognized by the Swiss Confederation. Deeply committed to sustainable and responsible development, FAM supports numerous initiatives across Madagascar. These include the operation of Radio Haja, the construction of several primary schools and wells in the south, and material support to the Antsirabe prison. It also plays a key role in the development of ESSVA, providing both material and financial assistance to the school and covering tuition fees for the most disadvantaged students. Over 90% of its funds are directly allocated to projects, with all members working on a volunteer basis. The Foundation also leads reforestation and agricultural diversification efforts in the remote region of Antenina and supports a rural school near Antsirabe. Regular updates are provided to donors through its publication Vaovao. 

Partner: Institut Européen de Coopération et Developpment (IECD)

Since 1988, the Institut Européen de Coopération et de Développement (IECD) has supported human, economic, and social development in partnership with local actors. Recognized as a public-interest organization, it focuses on three main areas: education, vocational training and professional integration, and entrepreneurship. Active in 18 countries, the IECD works with over 400 local partners to implement sustainable and impactful projects.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile has played a key role in the development of the hospitality curriculum at ESSVA. Present at its inception over 25 years ago, EHLsmile was instrumental in launching a three-year accredited bachelor program in hospitality and in setting up the essential infrastructure, including the kitchen, training restaurant, and teaching hotel. This initiative aimed to provide high-quality, practical education for future hospitality professionals in Madagascar. Today, we are proud to return to ESSVA to help revamp and modernize these facilities, and to re-evaluate the academic program and curriculum to ensure it continues to meet current industry standards and local needs.

The School

The More Than A Drop School, operating in both Moshi and Zanzibar, delivers a sustainable and life-changing educational empowerment program designed for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged adolescent girls. The school offers a 12-month boarding program in hospitality management, targeting young women aged 18 to 21—many of whom have not completed secondary education. The program combines hands-on technical training in culinary arts, housekeeping, food and beverage service, nutrition, and hygiene, with essential English and computer skills. The school operates on the principles of self-help, transformation, and self-sustainability, aiming to equip students with the tools to become economically and socially independent. With a strong emphasis on excellence in practice, students learn directly in a professional environment that includes an on-site restaurant, B&B, and organic vegetable garden. Soft skills and personal development are also core to the curriculum, with daily guidance and specialized seminars. Remarkably, 90% of graduates secure employment, helping to reverse the high dropout rates among girls in Tanzania and offering them a pathway to a brighter future.

Partner: More Than A Drop Foundation

More Than A Drop is a philanthropic, non-profit foundation founded in 2011, committed to delivering sustainable, life-changing development aid to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals living in extreme poverty. The foundation focuses on self-help projects that uses a systemic and integrated approach to break the cycle of poverty. Its core vision is to ensure that young people, with little or no formal education, in Tanzania and across Africa can live in dignity and raise future generations free from poverty. With a special emphasis on empowering young women, More Than A Drop helps them take control of their lives and become agents of change for themselves and their children. Its goal is to establish self-sustaining schools that not only provide education and accommodation but also significantly improve learning outcomes and life opportunities.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile previously worked in Moshi, where it helped revamp the school’s one-year curriculum in culinary arts, housekeeping, and service. Now, EHLsmile is returning to the new campus in Zanzibar to develop a management and entrepreneurship program. In addition, EHLsmile will review the overall curriculum to assess potential improvements, ensuring the training continues to meet the evolving needs of the students and the hospitality industry. 

The School

The Abury Hospitality Academy is a comprehensive 6 to 12-month empowerment and training program in Marrakech, Morocco. Designed for young women aged 18 to 25, the program aims to foster self-reliance by equipping participants with both professional and life skills. In response to the socio-economic challenges and cultural norms that limit women’s opportunities—such as high rates of child marriage and female unemployment—the academy offers a pathway to independence through education. The curriculum includes hospitality management training, practical skills in culinary arts, housekeeping, service, and hygiene, alongside essential soft skills like communication, leadership, and critical thinking. Basic computer literacy and language training in English and/or French are also provided. Upon completion, graduates receive support in securing employment in Marrakech’s thriving hospitality industry, addressing both the region’s skills gap and the participants’ need for sustainable livelihoods. 

Partner: Abury Foundation

The Abury Foundation is dedicated to empowering women in Africa on their path to a self-determined and independent life. Believing that education is the foundation for true empowerment, the foundation promotes the education of women and children as a prerequisite for independence. Through its various projects and partnerships, it creates safe and supportive spaces where women and girls can learn, grow, and inspire one another. By 2030, Abury aims to ignite the dreams of 50,000 women and girls, helping them break free from limiting structures and become role models in their communities. Their approach combines educational programs, mentorships, and real-life opportunities, ensuring that learning is tied to a tangible, hopeful future. 

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supports the Abury Hospitality Academy by providing hospitality expertise to help design the curriculum. We also assist in selecting students and collaborate with local hotels to secure internship opportunities, ensuring the program offers both strong academic training and real-world experience. 

The School

Sala Baï is a free hospitality school whose goal is to train 150 disadvantaged Cambodian youth annually, created and administered by Fondation Agir Pour Le Cambodge (APLC). In 20 years, more than 2,000 young people have been trained and found employment in the tourism sector, enabling them to become financially independent and improve their families' living conditions. The training lasts 11 months and focuses on one of five disciplines: Restaurant, Kitchen, Reception, Room Service, and Beauty Care. The program alternates between theoretical courses (professional techniques, English language, general knowledge, and soft skills) and practical work, either at the school or during internships at partner hotels. The training and diploma are real assets when it comes to finding employment. Today, 98% of graduates are hired within six weeks of receiving their diplomas. Students are thus able to financially support their families, often allowing their siblings to continue their education.

Partner: Agir pour le Cambodge (APLC)

APLC is a French NGO founded in 1985 by former students of the Lycée Franklin – St Louis de Gonzague in Paris, responding to a call from one of their Cambodian classmates to address the humanitarian emergency and assist the Cambodian population sheltering in camps on the Thai border. APLC's mission from the outset was to combat poverty through education and training programs. It shifted its focus to development assistance in 1995 and has since contributed to poverty reduction and the fight against human trafficking. Today, it able to continue its mission through education assistance programs. Its actions are aimed primarily at children and young people from disadvantaged families, aged 8 to 23, and particularly at girls, due to their greater vulnerability and less access to education and stable employment.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supported Sala Baï through a comprehensive review of the overall curriculum, a focused assessment of the culinary training, and interviews with partner hotels and graduates to better understand industry expectations. This allowed the school to refine its programs and strengthen the alignment between training and job market needs.

The School

The ROKPA Hospitality Vocational Training started in 2018, modelled on the Swiss apprenticeship style of education. Underprivileged youth have access to a high-quality on-the-job professional training at a reduced cost. They follow a one year program, consisting of theoretical and practical lessons, with the practical part taking place in the ROKPA Guest House, Restaurant and Bakery. Courses include Rooms Division (housekeeping and front office), food and beverage service and food production. Students who achieve the required qualification levels receive an officially recognized certificate upon graduation and are supported in their search for a job. 

Partner: ROPKA INTERNATIONAL

ROKPA INTERNATIONAL is an international relief organization, that acts where humanitarian aid is particularly difficult to give, but desperately needed. ROKPA's projects are long-term, sustainable and are based on the principle of "helping people to help themselves". ROKPA’s story began in 1980 with a pilgrimage to Nepal and India. Co-founder Lea Wyler was deeply moved by the immense poverty and countless street children, and ROPKA was therefore created along with co-founders Dr. Akong Tulku Rinpoche and Dr. Veit Wyler. At the beginning, ROKPA’s work concentrated on sponsorships of individual people in need in Nepal, India and later in the Tibetan areas of China. Today, ROKPA runs its own projects in Nepal, Zimbabwe and South Africa. Local teams are responsible and monitor the projects on site. A close collaboration with the local teams facilitates both a fast and efficient response to changing circumstances, and the transfer of donations in a non-bureaucratic way. 

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supported the launch of the ROKPA Hospitality Vocational Training by designing a tailored one-year curriculum that equips students with essential skills in culinary arts and hotel operations, helping bridge the gap between education and employment for marginalized youth. 

The School

The Bodhgaya Hotel School in India is dedicated to empowering underprivileged and untrained youth by providing them with high-quality hospitality training, opening doors to the professional world and addressing the growing demand for skilled manpower in the Indian service sector. As one of the fastest-growing industries in the country, hospitality offers diverse employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, event management, airlines, and more. The school offers two main programs: the Food Production Programme, where students learn culinary skills, menu planning, and kitchen operations; and the Hotel Operations Programme, which trains students in housekeeping, front office, and food & beverage service. Both courses include English, hygiene, and professional conduct training, ensuring students are well-prepared for the workforce. By connecting students directly with guests, the school blends practical experience with cultural authenticity, inviting visitors to take part in a unique, socially impactful journey that supports sustainable development in Bihar. 

Partner:  International Foundation for Population and Development (IFPD)

With 25 years of experience, IFPD empowers vulnerable populations through vocational training, entrepreneurship, and professional integration programs. Operating in Brazil, India, Nepal, and Switzerland, IFPD collaborates with local NGOs, as well as private, public, and academic partners to foster sustainable social and economic inclusion. The foundation’s main objectives are to provide underprivileged youth with access to a wide range of vocational training and to establish strong links with local businesses to enhance employment opportunities. Through social business, micro-enterprises, and hands-on training, IFPD contributes to building a qualified workforce and promoting lasting change in the communities it serves. 

Partner: Agragami India

Agragami India is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable improvements in the lives of rural and urban poor by addressing the root causes of multi-dimensional poverty, including poor health and sanitation, limited access to education, and lack of livelihood opportunities. Established in 2001 by a group of development professionals with a shared vision, Agragami empowers communities—particularly women and young adults—through programs that provide critical information, education, and skills. These initiatives encourage the adoption of positive behaviors and the effective use of essential services in health, education, skill development, and income generation. With a primary focus on Bihar and low-income settlements in the National Capital Region, Agragami also strengthens the capacity of community outreach workers across government and non-government sectors. 

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile brings technical expertise to the Bodhgaya Hotel School by developing a one-year training program, refining teaching methodologies, and ensuring that international hospitality standards are upheld. The association also plays a vital role in regularly monitoring and evaluating the school’s operations to maintain the quality and relevance of the training provided. All   students seeking employment after graduation have been successfully placed, reflecting the program’s effectiveness in equipping young adults with the skills needed to thrive in the hospitality industry. 

EHLsmile's involvement: 

As part of a mandate financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), EHLsmile was tasked with designing, delivering, and managing a ‘Master Instructor in Swiss Hospitality’ course in Yangon, Myanmar. This intervention is embedded within the Vocational Skills Development Program (VSDP), which aims to foster profitable, market-oriented employment or self-employment opportunities and improve incomes for disadvantaged groups in selected areas of Myanmar. The course targeted 17 Master Instructors, all with prior experience in the hospitality sector. These Master Instructors were trained to deliver high-quality, industry-based instruction to approximately 300 hotel supervisors, who in turn will train over 5,000 learners, including existing hotel line staff and disadvantaged individuals seeking employment. Training is delivered across four key hospitality departments: front office, food and beverage service, kitchen and housekeeping. The program follows a cascading training model. First, the master instructors are trained in advanced technical and pedagogical skills. Then, these Master Instructors train hotel supervisors to become qualified hospitality instructors. Finally, these newly trained instructors deliver practical training to learners, enhancing their employability in the hotel sector. This approach supports the scaling-up and sustainability of hospitality training in Myanmar by building a local cadre of qualified trainers, rooted in industry practice and aligned with Swiss standards of excellence.

Partner: Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC)

The Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC) is the international cooperation agency of the Swiss Confederation, under the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). It is responsible for implementing Switzerland’s development and humanitarian aid policies, with a focus on reducing poverty, fostering sustainable development, and promoting peace and human rights. The SDC works in over 50 countries through bilateral and multilateral partnerships, supporting initiatives in education, health, economic development, governance, and climate resilience. 

Partner: Swisscontact

Swisscontact is a Swiss non-profit organization established in 1959 by leading figures in the Swiss private sector. It focuses on inclusive economic development in emerging and developing countries, with the goal of creating opportunities for people to improve their livelihoods through market-oriented vocational education and training (VET), entrepreneurship promotion, labor market integration, and private sector development. 

Partner:  Tailored Values

Tailored Values is a Swiss-based consultancy dedicated to promoting sustainable and inclusive business practices in the hospitality and tourism sectors. With a strong focus on vocational education and training (VET), they specialize in designing and implementing skills development programs that are aligned with local industry needs. Tailored Values often collaborates with NGOs, international organizations, and development agencies to improve training quality, enhance employability, and support social impact projects—particularly in underserved regions. Their work combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to empowering youth through practical, career-oriented education.

The School

The Bongde Institute of Hotel & Tourism (BIHT) was originally established in 2006, and until 2014 it was operating as a resort. A transformative partnership in 2013 led to its conversion into a hospitality training institute, aimed at equipping unemployed Bhutanese youth with practical, industry-ready skills. Significant investments were made to refurbish the facilities, aligning them with international hospitality standards while maintaining the operational 3-star hotel, which continues to serve as a valuable platform for on-the-job training. Since March 2019, under the leadership of Mr. Sonam Tshering, the institute has seen strengthened management and a renewed focus on training quality and accessibility. BIHT now offers six-month certificate programs in food production, food & beverage service, and room division, with a mission to make Bhutanese youth employable and position the institute and resort as a center of excellence in hospitality training.

Partner : Bhutan Learning Exchange Foundation (BLEF)

BLEF was established in Bhutan in 2009 to promote Bhutanese culture and create opportunities for global knowledge exchange. It connects local citizens with people from around the world to foster mutual learning. Since then, it has opened two hotels schools, one in Bhutan and one in Myanmar. BLEF’s goals include providing quality vocational education, enabling cultural exchange, and transferring knowledge from experienced professionals to young learners. It also promotes sustainable eco-projects by offering expertise, training, and funding to both Bhutanese and Burmese communities.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile helped design a six-month training program specializing in food production, food & beverage service, and rooms division. The first cohort in 2015 of 30 students was trained under the guidance of EHLsmile volunteers, setting a new standard for hands-on, quality education in Bhutan. 

The School

The Pimali Hospitality Training Center, founded in 2013, provides practical hospitality training to underprivileged youth and orphans from the Nong Khai region in Thailand. With a strong focus on “learning by doing,” students aged 15 and above who have completed compulsory schooling can enroll in vocational programs in cooking (11 months), service (11 months), or housekeeping (6 months), followed by a six-month internship in a hotel. Located in one of the poorest regions of Thailand, where professional opportunities—especially for young women—are scarce, Pimali equips its students with the skills needed to enter the job market and gain financial independence. The center plays a vital role in combating youth exploitation and poverty. Impressively, 82% of graduates are hired after their internship. By offering real, hands-on experience and long-term support, Pimali is creating life-changing opportunities for Thailand’s most vulnerable youth.

Partner : Fondation Pimali

The Pimali Foundation was created following Stéphanie des Arts-Loup’s experience in an orphanage in northeastern Thailand, where she witnessed the limited opportunities faced by disadvantaged youth after completing their compulsory education. Determined to make a difference, she launched the Pimali project to offer these young people a path toward a dignified, independent future. The foundation works to combat exploitation and poverty by supporting access to professional training in the hospitality sector. The name "Pimali" comes from the Thai words "Pi" (elder, respectful title) and "Mali" (jasmine flower), a nickname given to Stéphanie during her time in Thailand. Through its mission, the foundation promotes empowerment, responsibility, and long-term impact, encouraging graduates to return and mentor future students.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supported the Pimali Foundation by helping to develop a one-year training program focused on kitchen, service, and housekeeping. The collaboration aimed to structure a practical and accessible curriculum tailored to the needs of the local context. Volunteers worked closely with the Pimali team to ensure the program could be sustainably implemented and provide students with the essential skills for a career in hospitality.

The School

Located in Lomé, Togo, the École Supérieure du Tourisme et d’Hôtellerie Stella Matutina (ESTH-SM) is a private higher education institution recognized by the Togolese Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Known for its strong focus on practical training and international standards, ESTH-SM offers professional programs such as the Brevet de Technicien Hôtelier (BTH), Brevet de Technicien Supérieur (BTS) in Restaurant and Accommodation, Certificat d’Aptitude Professionnelle (CAP), and Certificat de Formation Approfondie (CFA). The school aims to equip students with the theoretical and practical skills needed to succeed in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Partner: AEHL & Pierre Seto

The EHL Alumni Network is one of the most dynamic and influential hospitality networks in the world, bringing together over 30,000 graduates across more than 150 countries. United by a shared educational experience, EHL alumni are leaders, innovators, and changemakers in a wide range of industries. The network offers lifelong connections, professional development opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Whether through local chapters, global events, or mentorship programs, EHL alumni continue to support one another while upholding the values of excellence, responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit that define the EHL legacy.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supported the restructuring of the existing Stella Matutina school by helping to develop two distinct academic tracks: a three-year bachelor-level program (BT) and a two-year professional program (BTS). The aim was to strengthen the school’s curriculum and align it more closely with industry standards, offering students clearer academic pathways and better employment prospects. This collaboration focused on refining course content, enhancing the balance between theory and practice, and ensuring the programs respond to the evolving needs of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

The School

The PSE Vocational Training Institute in Phnom Penh was created to provide disadvantaged youth with the skilled professions necessary to integrate with dignity into Cambodian society, especially in a country recovering from widespread destruction and lacking quality training opportunities. The institute serves nearly 1,500 students across five schools specializing in hospitality and tourism, management and sales, mechanics, construction, and filmmaking—programs carefully aligned with Cambodia’s labor market needs. Nearly 100% of graduates secure qualified employment after earning diplomas officially recognized by the Royal Government of Cambodia and accredited by the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training. Among its programs, the Lotus Blanc Hospitality Training School stands out as a practical training hotel and restaurant run by students, offering hands-on experience in culinary arts, table service, housekeeping, laundry, hair & beauty, and reception. Under the guidance of their instructors, students apply skills developed through workshops like the "mini Lotus Blanc" while serving a fusion of traditional Khmer and Western cuisine in a real-world environment. With nearly 250 students enrolled, Lotus Blanc is also a member of ASSET H&C, contributing to the social and economic inclusion of underprivileged communities across Southeast Asia. Throughout their educational journey, PSE remains committed to providing holistic care and guidance to support every student’s success.

Partner: Association Pour un Sourire d'Enfant (PSE)

Association Pour un Sourire d'Enfant (PSE) is a respected nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children and their families in Cambodia. Founded in 1995, PSE focuses on rescuing children from poverty, exploitation, and trafficking by providing access to education, healthcare, and family support services. Through its comprehensive approach, the association helps children stay in school, develop essential skills, and build a stable future. PSE also works closely with local communities to promote sustainable development and protect children’s rights, making a lasting impact on generations to come.

Partner: Institut Européen de Coopération et de Dévelopmment (IECD) 

The Institut Européen de Coopération et de Développement (IECD) is a French international solidarity organization founded in 1988 that works across 18 countries, mainly in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. IECD focuses on education, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and healthcare access to empower vulnerable youth and adults with skills that help them build better futures and contribute positively to their communities. Known for impactful programs like technical training in trades and artisan bakery schools, IECD partners closely with local organizations to ensure sustainable development and strong ties to local labor markets.

EHLsmile's involvement 

EHLsmile supported the development of a two-year hospitality training program focused on kitchen, service, housekeeping, and bakery/pastry. Working closely with local partners, EHLsmile helped design a practical curriculum tailored to the specific needs of the students and the local industry. This collaboration aimed to equip trainees with the essential skills and hands-on experience required to succeed in hospitality careers, strengthening their job readiness and future employment opportunities.

The School

Jari Hotel School was established between 1997 and 2000 in collaboration with Association Terre des Hommes. The institution was specifically designed to provide vocational training to Ethiopian war orphans, equipping them with practical skills in hospitality to facilitate their reintegration into society and the workforce. The curriculum focused on food production and hotel operations, offering a two-year training program that combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. This initiative aimed to empower vulnerable youth by providing them with the tools necessary for sustainable employment in the hospitality industry. The school has now closed due to political reasons. 

Partner: Association Terre des Hommes

Terre des Hommes is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting children’s rights and improving their living conditions worldwide. Founded in 1960, the association focuses on combating child exploitation, providing access to education and healthcare, and supporting vulnerable children and their families. Through local partnerships and community-based projects, Terre des Hommes works to create sustainable change, empowering children and communities to build a safer and healthier future. 

Partner: EHL Hotel Business School 

EHL (École hôtelière de Lausanne) is a world-renowned hospitality management school based in Switzerland, known for its excellence in education, innovation, and leadership development. Founded in 1893, EHL offers comprehensive programs combining practical experience and academic rigor, preparing students for careers in hospitality, luxury management, and related industries. With a global network of alumni and industry partners, EHL fosters entrepreneurial spirit, sustainability, and cutting-edge knowledge in hotel and business management.

EHLsmile's involvement 

This was EHLsmile’s very first project, marking the beginning of its commitment to vocational training for disadvantaged youth. Working closely with local partners, EHLsmile helped design a practical curriculum tailored to the specific needs of the students and the local industry. This collaboration aimed to equip trainees with the essential skills and hands-on experience required to succeed in hospitality careers, strengthening their job readiness and future employment opportunities.