MIC Institute of Technology (MIC-IT) hosted its “Inside the Industry: Hospitality Edition” engagement session at the MIC-IT Head Office in Macoya, on Wednesday 10th June, 2026, bringing together trainees and industry professionals to explore the vast opportunities available within the hospitality and tourism sector.

The initiative provided MIC-IT Culinary trainees with firsthand insight into the realities of the hospitality industry through presentations and discussions led by local and international hospitality professionals. Participants benefited from practical advice on service excellence, workplace readiness, career advancement, professional development and emerging opportunities within the sector.

Delivering the Feature Address was Senator Professor Emeritus the Honourable Prakash Persad, Minister of Tertiary Education and Skills Training, who underscored the importance of skills training as a viable pathway to meaningful employment, entrepreneurship and international career opportunities. Also present at the event was MTEST’s Deputy Permanent Secretary (Ag.) Ms. Bhagwati Manick.

Minister Persad highlighted the growing demand for skilled hospitality professionals both locally and abroad and emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensuring that technical and vocational education remains aligned with industry needs.

“Skills training continues to open doors for our citizens, not only within Trinidad and Tobago but across the global marketplace. The hospitality sector presents tremendous opportunities for personal growth, economic mobility and national development, and we must continue to equip our young people with the competencies needed to thrive in these environments,” Minister Persad stated.

The event also featured remarks from Dr. the Honourable David A. Lee, Minister of Housing and former Chairman of MIC-IT, the Honourable Wayne Sturge, Minister of Defence and Minister in the Ministry of Homeland Security, Mr. Nazim Hosein, Chairman of MIC-IT, and Mr. Deosaran Boodooram, Director of MIC-IT. A highlight of the mentorship session was the presentation by Ms. Ria La Fleur, Head of Training, Excellence Hub, United Hospitality Management, The Palms, Dubai, who provided participants with valuable perspectives on global hospitality standards, professional development, and career opportunities within the industry.

This engagement forms part of MTEST’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the connection between technical training and industry expectations by exposing trainees to real-world experiences, professional networks and current labour market demands.

MTEST remains committed to working alongside its agencies and stakeholders to ensure that tertiary education and skills training programmes continue to produce a highly skilled, globally competitive workforce capable of meeting the evolving needs of industry while contributing to national development.