TUI Care Foundation Opens Hospitality Academy for Disadvantaged Youth in Hanoi - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The TUI Care Foundation has launched the TUI Academy Hanoi, a new initiative designed to improve access to hospitality careers for disadvantaged young people in Vietnam. By combining internationally accredited vocational training with practical work experience and comprehensive personal support, the programme aims to prepare participants for long-term employment in the country’s rapidly expanding tourism and hospitality sector.

Developed in response to the growing demand for skilled hospitality professionals, the Academy also addresses barriers that prevent many young people from accessing quality vocational education. The project connects inclusive education with sustainable tourism development, helping to build a qualified local workforce while creating new opportunities for vulnerable communities.

Creating pathways from education to employment

Vietnam has one of Southeast Asia’s youngest populations, yet people aged between 15 and 24 account for almost half of the country’s unemployed workforce. Access to vocational education remains particularly limited for young people from low-income families, rural communities and unstable social backgrounds. At the same time, the country's expanding tourism industry continues to generate strong demand for qualified hospitality professionals.

TUI Academy Hanoi has been established to bridge this gap through a structured two-year hospitality training programme for disadvantaged young adults aged 18 to 24.

The initiative is delivered in partnership with Net4kids, which connects businesses and entrepreneurs with high-impact youth projects, and KOTO Foundation, a Vietnamese social enterprise with more than 25 years of experience in vocational education and youth development.

Practical training combined with personal development

The programme combines internationally recognised hospitality education with hands-on experience in a professional working environment. In addition to vocational training, students receive English language instruction, computer skills training and life skills education to strengthen their employability.

To ensure participants can fully focus on their education, the Academy also provides accommodation, meals, transport support, hygiene products and counselling services, creating a safe and stable learning environment throughout the programme.

Long-term opportunities for young people

By the end of the two-year programme, at least 95 students are expected to graduate, with a minimum of 85 securing employment within the hospitality industry within six months of completing their studies.

Beyond professional qualifications, the Academy also aims to strengthen participants' self-confidence, independence and ability to succeed in both professional and personal life.

Supporting sustainable tourism development

By linking vocational education directly with employment opportunities in tourism, TUI Academy Hanoi contributes to the long-term development of a skilled local workforce while promoting more inclusive and sustainable tourism growth in Vietnam.

Through recognised qualifications, improved employability and personal development, the initiative is expected to deliver lasting benefits not only for participating young people but also for local communities and the country's tourism destinations.

Image Credit: © TUI