Universal Foundation and Villa College have officially renewed their partnership to continue the Discover Hospitality Program in 2026. The Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed on 2 April 2026, between Universal Foundation and Villa College. Mr. Iyaz Waheed, President of Universal Foundation, and Dr. Ali Najeeb, Vice Rector of Villa College Signed the MOA.

Launched in 2017, the Discover Hospitality Program is an ongoing initiative by Universal Foundation designed to cultivate talent within the hospitality industry and open career opportunities for youth. To date, the program has trained over 200 students, with the 7th batch completing the program at the end of 2025 and currently awaiting graduation. The introduction of the Culinary CIII Certificate in 2024 significantly expanded the program’s scope, creating new pathways for students interested in pursuing culinary careers while fostering local culinary talent. Since its inception, the program has successfully delivered training to seven batches in operations and two batches in culinary. It has become one of the most sought-after internship programmes in the Maldives. Under this renewed partnership marks the commencement of the 8th batch of Discover Hospitality (Operations) and the 3rd batch of Discover Hospitality (Culinary).

These batches are scheduled to start on 1st June 2026. The Discover Hospitality Program continues to emphasize strong collaboration between industry and academia, ensuring students receive up-to-date knowledge, practical exposure, and comprehensive guidance. Through structured training and continuous performance evaluation, participants are encouraged to exceed their limitations and graduate as skilled, workforce-ready professionals. The participants complete their theory classes at Villa College and a three-month internship placement at the properties managed by Versa Hospitality (previously known as Universal Resorts) in the Maldives. All costs of the programme are covered by Universal Foundation, while Versa Hospitality will pay an allowance to the participants.

With the continued commitment of Universal Foundation and Villa College, the program aims to create greater opportunities for youth and develop a new generation of industry-trained professionals in the hospitality sector. UNIVERSAL FOUNDATION Page 2 of 2 ADDRESS 39 Orchid Magu, P.O Box 2015, Male’ 20-02, Republic of Maldives PHONE +960 3323080, +960 3322971 FAX +960 3320274, +960 3322678 Registration No. T/2013/104/55 www.universalfoundation.org.mv Applications for the upcoming intake are now open, and the deadline for applications is 10th May 2026.

Applications can be made via the official website of Universal Foundation and Villa College.