Mohalenyane Phakela

AVANI Lesotho has offered a graduate training programme to four outstanding hospitality and tourism graduates from the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT).

The students, their parents and LUCT representatives were also treated to a sumptuous meal in recognition of their achievements at the hotel this past week.

Letanta Selikoe who graduated last week with an Associate Degree in Hotel Management received the Industry Award for Excellence while Liopelo Mohapi (BA Honours in Tourism Management) got the Creativity and Innovation Award.

Tiisetso Makhasane (Associate Degree in Tourism Management) received the Leadership Award while Tiisang Letima (Associate Degree in Hotel Management) scooped the Creativity and Innovation Award. The four are set to undergo further training at the hospitality group’s hotels..

AVANI Lesotho’s Training Manager Lineo Thaanyane said they were moved to honour the students for the outstanding performances in their studies.

“We received several applications from Limkokwing students seeking internship at one of our two hotels and since last year we have offered them such opportunities,” Ms Thaanyane said.

“We were humbled by the great work and dedication they showed. Recognition inspires and drives people to do more so we will offer them further training so that they can fully understand the operation of the hotel.”

She added: “We hope to engage them on a permanent basis provided they continue to excel in their fields.”

LUCT representative Lebesa Nkune expressed gratitude to the hospitality group, saying the gesture would not only motivate the recipients but others who were still to graduate.

“We see this as the growth of our relationship with AVANI for this year they did not only offer internship but also encouraged our students to even work harder,” he said.

“The awards will also motivate students and even those who are yet to enroll at tertiary institutions to work even harder so they can be recognised too.”

“Limkokwing is an industry-led university so we are grateful when corporate entities such as AVANI get involved as this gives us the right direction to provide the curriculum that is relevant to industry’s needs,” Mr Nkune added.

One of the recipients, Liopelo Mohapi, also thanked AVANI for honouring them.

“It is very encouraging when people recognise your efforts and to be acknowledged by a great hospitality company like AVANI means a lot to us.

“I am looking forward to the training as my dream is to be an entrepreneur in the same field in future,” she said.