Vatel Bahrain welcomed its new students for the 2026/2027 academic year with the annual Induction Day designed to help them settle into college life and understand what to expect from their hotel management degree. Senior education and tourism officials joined a hotel industry professional and Vatel alumni for the event, bringing both academic and professional perspectives to the students’ introduction to the College.
The event was attended by His Excellency Mr. Éric Giraud-Telme, Ambassador of France to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Dr. Farzana Abdulla Al-Maraghi, Assistant Secretary-General of the Higher Education Council; and Ms. Dana Osama AlSaad, Deputy CEO for Resources and Projects at the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). Their participation highlighted the importance of close ties between educational institutions and organisations working to develop the tourism and hospitality sector and its future workforce.
The programme also featured first-hand perspectives on studying at Vatel and working in hospitality. Ms. Biljana Gabranovic, Revenue Manager at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, shared insights and professional advice drawn from her career in the sector.
Students were introduced to Vatel Bahrain’s approach to teaching, which combines theoretical study with hands-on training in addition to explaining the relevant institutional polices. Hearing from graduates also offered a personal perspective on life at Vatel Bahrain, helping new students understand the demands of their studies and how to make the most of the learning opportunities ahead.
Sheikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, General Director of Vatel Bahrain, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new students to Vatel Bahrain. Our Induction Day helps them prepare for their studies and introduces them to Vatel’s approach to hospitality education. It also provides an opportunity to meet their fellow students and get to know the wider Vatel community. We thank our distinguished guests, hospitality professionals and alumni for sharing their experience and advice, giving students a clearer understanding of what to expect from their studies and the career opportunities ahead.”
Ms. Fatema Ali, Director of Studies at Vatel Bahrain, said: “The Induction Day is an essential introduction to studying at Vatel, giving students a broader understanding of their chosen discipline before classes and practical training begin. The experience and advices from our distinguished guests share help students appreciate the connection between their education and the hospitality profession. These encounters encourage them to ask thoughtful questions, explore new perspectives and learn from others. Our aim is for every student to begin with a clear understanding of the commitment their studies require and the goals they wish to pursue.”
