BBC MasterChef Shah Concludes Free Hospitality Training for Hearing and Listening Impaired Students at GATE College

KATHMANDU, Dec 27:BBC MasterChef Santosh Shah has concluded a groundbreaking campaign to provide free hospitality training for individuals with hearing and listening impairments. This heartfelt initiative, in collaboration with GATE College’s sister organization, GATE Polytechnic Institute, strives to empower these individuals with professional skills while fostering inclusivity in the hospitality industry. 

 

The campaign gained support through CONNOPPO, with initial funding raised during a charity dinner organized in Switzerland. Speaking at the graduation ceremony at GATE College, MasterChef Shah reflected on the initiative’s impact, stating, “This is not just about providing skills, but also about promoting inclusivity. When given the right guidance and opportunities, people with disabilities can make significant contributions to society. This is just the beginning; we need to strengthen our efforts.” 

 

The program specifically targets individuals who are hearing and listening impaired, focusing on enhancing their self-reliance and professional capabilities. “This has been part of our long-term plan, and in the first phase, we have celebrated the graduation of trained professionals this Sunday,” Shah shared. “We are also ensuring employment opportunities for these skilled individuals, paving the way for a more inclusive future.” 

 

To date, 31 participants have successfully completed training in various aspects of hotel management, including barista skills, housekeeping, and bakery operations. Looking ahead, the initiative will continue to provide 390 hours of specialized training to deaf youth starting in early 2024, with certificates of completion awarded upon graduation. Shah also highlighted the success of similar empowering CSR initiatives previously conducted in Janakpur through Mithila Thali. 

 

Bibek Poudel, General Manager of GATE Polytechnic Institute, applauded the program’s progress. While initially challenged by the absence of interpreters, the initiative has overcome barriers and significantly improved accessibility. “Training for six youth began in 2024 as UNICEF members recommended students. As the program proved successful, it has expanded, and by the end of this year, 31 individuals will have received free training,” Poudel explained. 

 

The transformative impact of the program is evident in stories like that of Anil Kumar Hamal, a participant who secured a job at the same hotel where he trained. “There are still some communication difficulties due to language barriers, but the skills I have gained have opened new doors for me,” he shared, his gratitude shining through. 

 

Khem Lakai, founder and CEO of the GATE College group, emphasized the initiative’s broader vision. “Eighteen years ago, we set out to establish an educational institution in Nepal that adhered to international standards of hospitality education. Today, we are advancing this initiative with an inclusive approach, marking the beginning of a long-term commitment,” Lakai stated. He reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to empowering marginalized groups, including those with disabilities. 

 

The campaign has also seen active participation from the National Federation of the Deaf Nepal, Gandaki Deaf Association, represented by Mr. Santosh KC, its president, and other concerned stakeholders, underscoring its collaborative and inclusive ethos. The ceremony also featured remarks from Prof. Dr. Kashiraj Pandey and journalist Gajendra Budhathoki, who lauded the initiative’s positive impact and tangible results.