VFS GLOBAL LAUNCHES SKILL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME IN BALI WITH FUEL AND YMMI
VFS Global has expanded its Career Advancement Program to Bali, partnering with FUEL and Yayasan Mitra Mandiri Indonesia (YMMI) to offer local youth an opportunity to build critical skills in hospitality and English language proficiency. This CSR initiative, aimed at empowering young Indonesians through skill development, follows a successful run in Jakarta and highlights VFS Global’s commitment to supporting youth employability and the growth of Indonesia’s tourism industry.
The program launch was marked by an event attended by key stakeholders, including Mr. Cecep Rukendi, Director of Tourism Marketing for EMEAA Regions, from Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf RI), demonstrating strong governmental support. The initiative is set to provide training for 200 students from SMK Pariwisata Harapan, equipping them with the expertise needed to meet the demands of Bali’s vibrant hospitality sector.
In collaboration with FUEL and YMMI, VFS Global has crafted a curriculum that includes classroom training, workshops, and practical experiences. Students will gain a foundation in English language skills and essential hospitality sector knowledge, helping them enhance their employment prospects within Bali’s competitive job market. Speaking at the event, Ms. Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy Minister for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy, expressed enthusiasm for the program, noting that it aligns with Indonesia’s broader goals to leverage the country’s youth demographic for economic growth. “Indonesia has a significant youth population, making up about 24% of the country’s citizens aged 16-30 in 2023,” she shared. “This initiative by VFS Global and its partners is a valuable step in preparing these young individuals for successful careers in tourism.”
A key highlight of the program is the opportunity for top-performing students to intern at Harris Hotel & Residences Riverview Kuta, providing valuable hands-on experience in the hospitality industry. Additionally, the Marriott Business Council Indonesia will provide select students with apprenticeships or placements at any of Marriott International’s 27 properties in Bali, allowing them to gain industry experience with a globally recognized hospitality brand.
Mr. Kaushik Ghosh, Head of Australasia at VFS Global, emphasized the company’s dedication to skill-building initiatives, stating, “Our Career Advancement Program represents a part of VFS Global’s broader mission to empower youth and contribute to Indonesia’s creative economy. By investing in skill development, we aim to foster a brighter future for Bali’s youth while strengthening the local tourism sector.”
This collaborative effort between VFS Global, FUEL, and YMMI brings together resources and expertise to deliver high-quality training. FUEL, an India-based nonprofit, is known for its impact in youth education and skill development across diverse industries. “The Career Advancement Program opens doors for youth in hospitality, providing them with real-world experience and hands-on training,” said Mr. Gino Latief Sn, Executive Director of YMMI. “We are thrilled to extend this opportunity to Bali and look forward to seeing its positive impact on the local community.”
The launch event included speeches, a panel discussion, and an outline of the program’s goals, showcasing the anticipated impact on both participants and the Bali community at large. Attendees were also able to connect with key program stakeholders, including representatives from VFS Global, FUEL, YMMI, Marriott Business Council Indonesia, and the Harris Hotel, gaining insights into the program’s broader impact on the local job market and Bali’s tourism sector.