Toronto, May 13, 2020 - Centennial College hospitality and tourism students are invited to take advantage of tuition-free online training during the COVID-19 pandemic to equip themselves with nationally recognized certificates, thanks to Tourism HR Canada, which cultivates a world-leading tourism workforce.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major disruption to both education and tourism across Canada, yet innovative solutions can help,” states The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages. “Supported by the Government of Canada, this unique partnership between Centennial College and Tourism HR Canada’s Emerit Online Learning System will give Canadian students access to high-quality, tuition-free training to prepare them for good, well-paying jobs in our tourism sector.”
The industry-validated Emerit online courses equip event managers, food and beverage managers, front desk agents and room attendants with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their careers. The training courses are built on Canadian National Occupational Standards, and completion of the online certificates meets the demands of tourism employers across the country. This innovative effort will provide support to industry in managing and retaining talent, upskilling the workforce and developing resiliency for the eventual recovery.
“Working with Centennial College to quickly offer industry-sanctioned education programs illustrates the priority we have placed on ensuring we invest in the future workforce,” says Philip Mondor, President and CEO, Tourism HR Canada. “The online learning will help retain the many talented international and domestic students and ensure their academic studies can proceed with limited disruption.”
Students who complete the online courses will be eligible for prior learning assessment recognition towards the two School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts programs accredited by Tourism HR Canada. Both the Hotel Operations Management diploma and the Hospitality and Tourism Administration advanced diploma have received the SMART+ designation, Tourism HR Canada’s highest level of accreditation.
“Preparing for the eventual recovery of the tourism industry provides students with essential skills – and, more importantly, a sense of hope and optimism,” says Centennial College’s Joe Baker, Dean of the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts. "Centennial is committed to students’ success by providing experience and mentorship to underpin a new generation of exceptional graduates. This collaboration is one bred from resilience and innovation – two elements reflected throughout the design of the Emerit skills training and certification.”