Sands China and UTM Unveil New Culinary Training Program

Sands China Ltd, a prominent casino concessionaire in Macau, has joined forces with the Macao University of Tourism (UTM) to roll out a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the Western culinary skills of students. The collaboration, solidified through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), will introduce the "Sands China Western Culinary Elite Programme". This two-year program is set to refine culinary talent and strengthen ties between the industry, academia, and research sectors.

Program Overview: Training in France and Professional Development

A standout feature of the program is an eight-week intensive training session conducted at the globally renowned École Ducasse in France. The initiative addresses the increasing demand for skilled culinary professionals adept in Western cuisine. It aligns with the broader aim of developing cross-cultural culinary expertise and fostering collaboration between different sectors.

This "hire and train" model primarily targets top graduates specializing in Culinary Arts Management at UTM. Over a span of 24 months, participants will immerse themselves in learning international culinary cultures, gain professional certifications, and engage in practical training at integrated resort environments.

Synergy of Industry and Academia: Advancing Macau’s Tourism

Key figures from both Sands China and UTM emphasize the strategic importance of the program. Grant Chum, the Chief Executive and Executive Director of Sands China, highlighted the value of nurturing talent for sustainable corporate growth and underscored this initiative as a part of the company's corporate social responsibility efforts. He noted the long-standing partnership with UTM as integral to combining industry resources and academic strengths.

Meanwhile, Fanny Vong, the Rector of UTM, articulated the necessity of aligning academic programs with industry needs. She expressed enthusiasm for the program’s capability to provide graduates with valuable hands-on experience, broaden their cross-cultural perspectives, and contribute positively to Macau’s tourism sector.

The launch of this program was celebrated with an "Innovative Hospitality Management" symposium, which delved into how cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, could be harnessed within the hospitality industry.

Source: Sands China, UTM partner to launch 'Sands China Western Culinary Elite Programme', GGRAsia, November 27, 2025.

Posted by Wizard
Nov 27 2025