In a recent educational initiative, 46 participants from the Glenmarie and Penang campuses of the University of Wollongong (UOW) Malaysia engaged in a program at the International Management Institute (IMI) in Switzerland from July 27 to August 5, 2025. The focal point of this 10-day experience was a module titled *Current Trends in Tourism and Hospitality (CTTH)*, which included group presentations and discussions led by IMI’s academic leaders, such as former Academic Dean Gareth Curie and current Academic Dean Matina Gatsou, along with CEO Iulian Virlain.
Certificate Ceremony and Cultural Immersion
The program concluded with a certificate ceremony and sharing sessions, recognizing the academic accomplishments of the participants. A significant aspect of the experience was the cultural immersion that accompanied the educational components. Participants had the chance to celebrate Swiss National Day with locals, tour the Appenzell Cheese Factory to taste handmade cheese, and explore notable Swiss cities such as Zurich and Interlaken, as well as visit the Rhine Falls.
Aims of the Initiative
This initiative aimed to provide students with a combination of academic insights and cultural understanding, allowing them to enhance their perspectives on global hospitality practices and gain a deeper appreciation of Swiss traditions.
(Source: UOW Malaysia news)
