In July 2026, the Embassy of Switzerland in Colombo hosted the inaugural cohort from the APIIT School of Hospitality and Tourism in Sri Lanka for an immersive session focused on "Swissness." The event was part of APIIT Sri Lanka’s “Week of Serendipity” orientation program and marked a significant milestone in the institution’s partnership with the Hotel and Tourism Management Institute Switzerland (HTMi).
The collaboration between APIIT Sri Lanka and HTMi aims to bring Swiss hospitality standards to aspiring professionals by combining operational discipline, service excellence, and leadership skills. The students were welcomed by Olivier Praz, Chargé d’Affaires at the Swiss Embassy, who provided an overview of Swiss heritage, societal values, and the principles that define Switzerland’s global reputation for precision and innovation.
During the visit, students engaged in discussions on various aspects of Swiss culture, including its iconic landscapes, historic regions, traditional customs and festivals, and the strengths that contribute to Switzerland’s renowned hospitality sector. The session also covered Switzerland’s diplomatic approaches, sustainable tourism practices, punctuality, and meticulous attention to detail.
Attending the event were senior figures from APIIT Sri Lanka, including Chairman Bandula Egodage, the Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism, and the Head of Marketing.
APIIT Sri Lanka’s School of Hospitality and Tourism combines academic rigor with practical industry insights, leveraging a faculty composed of full-time academics and experienced professionals from the hospitality sector. The curriculum emphasizes management theory, culinary arts, front office operations, and professional grooming, supplemented by workshops and masterclasses delivered by industry experts.
The school’s strong network of industry partnerships enhances the program by incorporating service training, scholarship opportunities, and internship placements. Graduates also receive mandatory language training to prepare them for careers in high-end European and international luxury markets, supporting their global employability.
Academic programs range from certificate to Bachelor of Science (Hons) degrees in International Hospitality Management, with entry points for both Ordinary Level and Advanced Level students. Each academic year is structured to include 24 weeks of classroom study paired with six months of paid internships, ensuring graduates gain substantial practical experience prior to entering the workforce.
APIIT Sri Lanka features a comprehensive training ecosystem, including a residential facility near Bolgoda Lake and access to HTMi’s campus-hotel in Sörenberg, Switzerland. This model immerses students in real-world hospitality operations from the outset. A preparatory cohort provides intensive training in professional conduct, English proficiency, and foundational workplace skills.
Enrollment at the school includes campus tours, faculty interviews, and placement testing to support student success. Prospective students and industry partners are encouraged to contact the admissions office for information on intake schedules and application procedures.
Established in 1999, APIIT Sri Lanka offers internationally recognized programs across multiple disciplines in partnership with global universities. To date, the institution has graduated over 6,500 students, with nearly 60% achieving First-Class or Upper Second-Class honors and more than 90% securing employment within three months of graduation. The school maintains partnerships with institutions in Malaysia, Australia, and Taiwan, providing diverse international mobility options.
With a longstanding commitment to quality education and industry relevance, APIIT Sri Lanka continues to develop hospitality leaders equipped to succeed in the global market.