HP Newsroom
College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM) has announced the opening of a new campus in Swat under a significant joint venture with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today at a formal ceremony held at the Governor House in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries including the Governor of KPK, Faisal Karim Kundi.
The MoU marked the beginning of a transformative partnership aimed at providing high-quality education and vocational training in hospitality and tourism to the youth of Swat and the surrounding areas. The initiative is being facilitated by the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), which has been a key enabler in promoting youth development, skill-building, and economic empowerment in the region.
The MoU was officially signed by COTHM Chief Operating Officer (COO) Zaheer Ahmad and PRCS Chairman Habib Malik Orakzai, cementing the commitment of both organizations to empowering local communities through education and skills development.
“I am deeply pleased to witness the establishment of the COTHM campus in Swat, which represents a remarkable milestone for youth development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” said Governor KPK Faisal Karim Kundi. “This joint initiative between COTHM and the Pakistan Red Crescent Society will not only offer young people valuable vocational skills but also play a pivotal role in empowering women in the region. It is heartening to see such investments in the future of our youth, which will undoubtedly help bridge the gap between education and employability. The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is fully committed to supporting such ventures that contribute to the region’s progress and development.”
Zaheer Ahmad, the Chief Operating Officer of COTHM, expressed his enthusiasm about the new campus and the opportunities it would bring.
“This new venture in Swat marks a significant step forward in our mission to provide top-tier hospitality and tourism education across Pakistan. COTHM is dedicated to nurturing talent, especially among the youth and women, equipping them with the skills needed for a successful career in one of the world’s most dynamic industries. We are proud to collaborate with PRCS and NAVTTC to open doors for brighter futures, particularly in areas where opportunities for such professional training have been limited.”
Habib Malik Orakzai, Chairman of Pakistan Red Crescent Society, said, “Pakistan Red Crescent Society is pleased to partner with COTHM in this ambitious venture that will have far-reaching impacts on the community. Empowering youth, particularly young women, with the skills to enter the workforce is essential for building a sustainable future. By facilitating access to education and skills development, we aim to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that nurtures economic growth in Swat and surrounding areas. This initiative is aligned with PRCS’s mission to uplift communities through education and skill-building.”
