Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches has formalized a strategic partnership with Al Karamah Training Institute (AKTI) to advance inclusive education and create accessible vocational learning pathways for autistic students across the UAE.
Signed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the collaboration establishes a long-term framework that merges the Academy’s global hospitality expertise with AKTI’s specialized knowledge in autism education and support. Building on an initial partnership formed earlier this year, both organizations are now committed to deepening their efforts through 2027 and beyond.
The partnership aims to provide autistic students with valuable hands-on industry experience while equipping future hospitality professionals with the skills needed to foster inclusive workplaces. It also contributes to Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030 by developing a more diverse and representative hospitality workforce.
As part of the agreement, AKTI will deliver targeted training to Academy staff and students on autism awareness, inclusive teaching practices, and effective strategies for supporting neurodiverse learners in hospitality settings. In parallel, AKTI students will gain access to practical hospitality training and potential internship opportunities at the Academy.
Georgette Davey, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches, emphasized the importance of accessibility: “Hospitality is inclusive by nature. At Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches, we believe hospitality pathways should be accessible to everyone. Our partnership with AKTI reflects our long-term commitment to creating meaningful learning opportunities as well as helping shape a future hospitality workforce that understands the value of inclusion, empathy and accessibility all essential to creating exceptional guest experiences and building stronger teams".
The first initiative under the MoU was a successful five-week hospitality taster program for seven AKTI students, held earlier this year. Designed in close collaboration with AKTI’s educational and therapeutic specialists, the program offered a safe, supportive environment for immersive learning.
Participants engaged in practical workshops covering Emirati cuisine, pastry, front office operations, housekeeping, boardroom set-up, fine dining, and barista skills. Using visual learning tools, guided demonstrations, and hands-on exercises tailored for neurodiverse learners, the program helped students build confidence, practical skills, and workplace readiness.
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Michelle Farr, Principal at AKTI, shared: “Providing our students with opportunities to apply their skills in real-world environments is an important part of preparing them for future employment. Through this program, they were able to build confidence, develop practical hospitality skills, and experience professional settings in a supportive environment. We are delighted to continue our partnership with Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches and look forward to creating more opportunities that empower our students to reach their full potential".
Following the pilot’s success, both institutions are now planning expanded programs for 2027. Future phases will further enhance vocational learning opportunities, strengthen autism awareness in hospitality education, and support long-term employability for students of determination.w if you need any adjustments!
