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COTHM Student Mohid Represents Pakistan at WorldSkills Shanghai

web master — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 07:20:06 +0000

COTHM Student Mohid Represents Pakistan at WorldSkills Shanghai

COTHM proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of Mohid, a talented culinary student who has progressed from inter-school competitions to the national level and earned the opportunity to represent Pakistan on the international stage at WorldSkills Shanghai, China. His journey reflects the impact of skills, dedication, passion and perseverance in building successful careers in the culinary arts.

Mohid began his competitive journey at the Inter-School level, where he demonstrated his culinary abilities and advanced to the Inter-Province level. Continuing his impressive performance, he competed at the National level against talented culinary students from across Pakistan. His consistent excellence throughout these stages has now led him to the global platform of WorldSkills Shanghai.

At WorldSkills Shanghai, Mohid is representing Pakistan in Culinary Arts as the country’s only representative in this category. His participation is a proud moment for COTHM Pakistan and highlights the potential of young Pakistani culinary professionals on the international stage. From the classrooms and professional kitchens of COTHM to a global skills competition, his journey demonstrates how practical education and professional training can open doors to international opportunities.

COTHM Pakistan congratulates Mohid on this outstanding achievement and wishes him the very best for WorldSkills Shanghai. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring chefs and students across Pakistan, showing that with professional skills, determination and continuous learning, young talent can proudly carry the national flag to the world stage.

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Ahmad Shafiq and the Chefs’ Association of Pakistan: Building a National Culinary Community

web master — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 07:15:15 +0000

Building a National Culinary Community

In January 2006, Ahmad Shafiq took another significant step in developing Pakistan’s hospitality sector by bringing chefs together under the platform of the Chefs’ Association of Pakistan (CAP).

COTHM’s official history records that Ahmad Shafiq gathered chefs from across Pakistan and founded CAP as an apolitical and nonprofit organization in 2006. The initiative reflected a larger vision: professionalizing the culinary sector, creating opportunities for chefs and connecting Pakistani culinary professionals with international forums.

Ahmad Shafiq’s Leadership at CAP

Ahmad Shafiq’s association with CAP has continued through senior leadership roles. His professional profile identifies him as Founder Secretary General, while more recent CAP records identify him as President of the association.

Under his leadership and through international collaborations, CAP has promoted culinary education, competitions, professional recognition and skills development.

Ahmad Shafiq’s Culinary Legacy

One of the major outcomes of this international outlook has been Pakistan’s increasing participation in global culinary platforms and Worldchefs-related activities. COTHM and CAP have also been involved in international culinary competitions and professional forums.

From a group of chefs brought together in 2006 to a national platform representing Pakistan’s culinary community, CAP remains another important part of Ahmad Shafiq’s professional legacy.

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Ahmad Shafiq Leads Education and Training Agenda of Pakistan’s Tour Operators

web master — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 06:58:11 +0000

Ahmad Shafiq Leads Education and Training Agenda of Pakistan’s Tour Operators

Professional education has remained at the heart of Ahmad Shafiq’s contribution to Pakistan’s tourism industry, and his role as Head of the Education & Training Committee of the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO) reflects that commitment.

The tourism industry depends not only on destinations and infrastructure but also on skilled professionals capable of delivering international-standard services.

Through his work with COTHM and his association with PATO, Ahmad Shafiq has consistently emphasized the importance of education, professional development and industry-relevant skills.

His appointment as Head of PATO’s Education & Training Committee further reflects his experience in developing hospitality and tourism professionals.

The role brings together two important areas of Pakistan’s tourism ecosystem: professional education and the tour operating industry.

Ahmad Shafiq’s journey began in 2002 when he established COTHM’s first campus in Lahore with only 13 students. Over the years, his educational vision expanded into a network that COTHM says has produced more than 100,000 graduates working across international hospitality and tourism-related industries.

His continued involvement in tourism industry organizations demonstrates his belief that the future of Pakistan’s tourism sector depends heavily on the quality and professionalism of its human resources.

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Ahmad Shafiq and TDCP: Strengthening the Link Between Tourism Education and Industry Development

web master — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 06:42:47 +0000

Ahmad Shafiq and TDCP: Strengthening the Link Between Tourism Education and Industry Development

The professional journey of COTHM Founder, President & CEO Ahmad Shafiq has also brought him into close engagement with the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP).

His profile identifies him as a Board Member of TDCP, placing his experience in hospitality education and workforce development alongside the province’s tourism development framework. The connection between tourism development and professional education has been a consistent element of Ahmad Shafiq’s career.

In a recent engagement at COTHM’s Head Office, TDCP Managing Director Asim Raza toured the institution’s training infrastructure and appreciated its practical learning environment. He also commended Ahmad Shafiq’s contribution to the hospitality, culinary and tourism sectors. Such collaboration highlights the importance of skilled human resources in developing a competitive tourism industry.

From the establishment of COTHM in 2002 to the development of an educational network serving thousands of students and graduates, Ahmad Shafiq has consistently promoted skills-based education as a foundation for Pakistan’s hospitality and tourism future.

His association with TDCP further connects this educational vision with the wider development of Punjab’s tourism sector.

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Ahmad Shafiq and TDCP: Strengthening Tourism Education and Industry Development

web master — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 14:04:19 +0000

Ahmad Shafiq and TDCP: Strengthening Tourism Education and Industry Development

The professional journey of COTHM Founder, President & CEO Ahmad Shafiq TDCP engagement reflects a strong connection between tourism education, professional skills development and the wider growth of Punjab’s tourism sector. His profile identifies him as a Board Member of the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), bringing his experience in hospitality education and workforce development into the province’s tourism development framework.

The relationship between tourism development and professional education has remained an important part of Ahmad Shafiq’s career. In a recent engagement at COTHM’s Head Office, TDCP Managing Director Asim Raza visited the institution and toured its training infrastructure and practical learning environment. During the visit, he appreciated COTHM’s focus on skills-based education and also acknowledged Ahmad Shafiq’s contribution to the hospitality, culinary and tourism sectors.

The Ahmad Shafiq TDCP association highlights the importance of skilled human resources in building a competitive tourism industry. Tourism development depends not only on destinations and infrastructure but also on qualified professionals who understand hospitality services, tourism operations, destination management and modern industry standards. Strong collaboration between tourism institutions and professional education providers can help prepare young people for the changing requirements of Pakistan’s growing tourism and hospitality sectors.

Since establishing COTHM in 2002, Ahmad Shafiq has consistently promoted practical and industry-focused education as a foundation for professional success. His association with TDCP further connects this educational vision with the broader development of Punjab’s tourism sector. Through skills development, practical training and stronger industry collaboration, COTHM continues to contribute towards preparing future professionals for opportunities in Pakistan and the global tourism and hospitality industry.

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Travel & Tourism Capacity Building Training Promotes Pakistan in European Markets

web master — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 08:16:50 +0000

Travel & Tourism Capacity Building Training Promotes Pakistan in European Markets

The International Travel, Tourism & Aviation Academy at COTHM organized an insightful Travel & Tourism Capacity Building Training session focused on promoting Pakistan as an attractive tourist destination in European markets.

Klaus Kreutz, International Tourism Trainer, led the session and shared valuable international expertise and industry insights on strengthening Pakistan’s tourism potential and improving its position in the European tourism market.

Promoting Pakistan as a Tourist Destination

The training focused on the theme:

“Promoting Pakistan in European Markets as a Tourist Destination.”

Pakistan offers a diverse range of tourism opportunities, including breathtaking mountains, cultural heritage, historical sites, archaeological destinations, natural landscapes and unique regional experiences.

However, effectively promoting these destinations in international markets requires a strong understanding of global tourism trends, visitor expectations, destination marketing and international tourism standards.

International Expertise for Pakistan's Tourism Sector

During the Travel & Tourism Capacity Building Training, Klaus Kreutz shared his international experience and perspectives with participants.

The session provided valuable insights into the importance of understanding European tourism markets and identifying opportunities to present Pakistan as a competitive and attractive travel destination.

International knowledge and professional expertise can play an important role in helping tourism professionals understand changing market trends and develop effective strategies for destination promotion.

Building Capacity for Tourism Development

The training highlighted the importance of professional development and capacity building within Pakistan’s tourism sector.

As Pakistan continues to develop its tourism industry, skilled professionals with knowledge of international markets, tourism trends and destination management will play an increasingly important role.

Through such learning opportunities, tourism professionals and students can gain exposure to international practices and develop a broader understanding of how destinations are positioned and promoted globally.

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Prof Dr Muhammad Ali COTHM Tourism Leadership Gathering

web master — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 07:58:21 +0000

Prof Dr Muhammad Ali COTHM Tourism Leadership Gathering

Prof Dr Muhammad Ali COTHM participation highlighted the importance of academic leadership in Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality education.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab joined a distinguished gathering at COTHM Pakistan that brought together national and international leaders from tourism, government, academia, and professional training.

University of the Punjab Vice Chancellor at COTHM Pakistan

The event featured Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab, alongside Her Excellency Ina Lepel, Ambassador of Germany to Pakistan; Socrat Aman Rana, Secretary, Tourism, Archaeology & Museums Department, Government of Punjab; Rana Aftab, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC); and Klaus Kreutz, International Tourism Trainer and Former GIZ/CIM Tourism Expert.

The participation of academic leadership highlighted the critical role universities and professional education institutions can play in developing the human capital required by Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Importance of Tourism Education in Pakistan

Tourism is a multidisciplinary sector that requires expertise across management, hospitality, travel, destination development, marketing, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and customer experience. Strong connections between academia and industry can help ensure that graduates develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Collaboration between universities, professional education providers, government organizations, and industry stakeholders can create stronger pathways for students entering the tourism and hospitality workforce. The gathering provided a platform to discuss industry-academia collaboration, professional education, international exposure, skills development, and knowledge exchange.

Strengthening Academia and Industry Collaboration

COTHM Pakistan believes that collaboration with academic institutions, government organizations, industry stakeholders, and international experts can contribute to a stronger learning ecosystem. The presence of Prof Dr Muhammad Ali COTHM at this gathering reflected the value of connecting academic leadership with professional education and industry development. Such engagement can help educational institutions better understand industry requirements while providing students with greater exposure to professional practices and emerging opportunities.

Developing Pakistan's Tourism Workfor

Pakistan’s growing tourism potential presents significant opportunities for educational institutions to contribute to destination development and workforce preparation. Producing professionals equipped with practical skills, international awareness, and knowledge of modern tourism standards can help strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global tourism and hospitality sector.

The participation of Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali also reinforced the importance of academic engagement in discussions surrounding tourism education Pakistan, hospitality education, and the future of the country’s skilled workforce. COTHM Pakistan remains committed to strengthening educational and professional pathways for young people seeking careers in tourism, hospitality, travel, and related industries. COTHM Pakistan — Empowering Skills. Connecting the World.

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PTDC Managing Director Rana Aftab Joins Tourism Leaders at COTHM Pakistan

web master — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 07:33:47 +0000

PTDC Managing Director Rana Aftab Joins Tourism Leaders at COTHM Pakistan

Rana Aftab, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), joined a distinguished gathering of national and international tourism leaders at COTHM Pakistan to discuss the future of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The gathering brought together representatives from government, academia, diplomacy, international tourism training and professional education. It provided an important opportunity to discuss Pakistan’s tourism potential and the development of a skilled workforce.

The Rana Aftab PTDC COTHM gathering highlighted the importance of collaboration between national tourism institutions, educational organisations and industry professionals.

Tourism and Education Leaders Gather at COTHM

The distinguished gathering included Her Excellency Ina Lepel, Ambassador of Germany to Pakistan; Socrat Aman Rana, Secretary, Tourism, Archaeology & Museums Department, Government of Punjab; Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, Vice Chancellor, University of the Punjab; and Klaus Kreutz, International Tourism Trainer and Former GIZ/CIM Tourism Expert.

Their participation brought together valuable perspectives from government, higher education, tourism development and international professional training.

Furthermore, the interaction demonstrated the importance of cooperation between tourism institutions, educational organisations and industry leaders.

Developing Pakistan's Tourism Potential

Pakistan has significant potential as a tourism destination, with its cultural heritage, historical locations, mountains, diverse landscapes and unique regional experiences.

However, tourism development requires more than destinations and infrastructure. It also depends on professional education, skills training, destination development and qualified human resources.

Therefore, developing a skilled workforce remains essential for the long-term growth of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

COTHM's Commitment to Tourism Education

COTHM Pakistan continues to focus on preparing students and professionals for the evolving requirements of the tourism and hospitality industry through quality education, practical training and industry engagement.

With stronger collaboration between government institutions, academia, industry and international partners, Pakistan can continue developing its tourism potential while creating meaningful opportunities for young and skilled professionals.

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Klaus Kreutz COTHM Tourism Training

web master — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 07:17:41 +0000

International Tourism Trainer Klaus Kreutz Joins Tourism Leaders at COTHM Pakistan

COTHM Pakistan had the privilege of hosting Klaus Kreutz, an International Tourism Trainer and former GIZ/CIM Tourism Expert, during a distinguished gathering focused on tourism education, professional skills and the future of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The Klaus Kreutz COTHM Tourism gathering brought together leading figures from diplomacy, government, academia, national tourism institutions and professional education. As a result, the interaction created an important platform for knowledge sharing and international collaboration.

Tourism Leaders Gather at COTHM Pakistan

The distinguished participants included Her Excellency Ina Lepel, Ambassador of Germany to Pakistan; Socrat Aman Rana, Secretary, Tourism, Archaeology & Museums Department, Government of Punjab; Rana Aftab, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC); and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab.

Their participation brought together different perspectives from government, academia, international cooperation and tourism development. Furthermore, the gathering highlighted the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, tourism organisations and industry professionals.

Developing Tourism Skills for Global Careers

COTHM Pakistan places strong emphasis on practical and industry-oriented education. Through professional learning and practical exposure, students can develop skills for careers in hospitality, tourism, travel, culinary arts and other related industries. Moreover, international experts can contribute valuable perspectives by sharing professional experiences and knowledge of global tourism practices. This exchange of knowledge can help students better understand international expectations and evolving tourism industry standards.

International Expertise and Knowledge Exchange

The participation of Klaus Kreutz alongside senior government officials, academic leaders and tourism professionals created an important opportunity for knowledge exchange. International collaboration can help strengthen professional education by connecting local talent with global industry practices.

In addition, such interactions encourage students and professionals to explore new ideas, emerging trends and international career opportunities. The Klaus Kreutz COTHM Tourism gathering therefore reflected the value of connecting Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality sector with international expertise.

Strengthening Pakistan's Tourism Workforce

Pakistan’s tourism industry has significant potential for future growth. However, the development of a competitive tourism sector requires skilled professionals who understand international service standards, destination management and visitor expectations. Investment in tourism education, professional training and skills development can therefore support the long-term growth of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality industry.

COTHM Pakistan continues to create opportunities that connect students and professionals with industry leaders, international experts and global tourism practices.

The post Klaus Kreutz COTHM Tourism Training appeared first on COTHM.

Socrat Aman Rana Joins COTHM Tourism Leaders

web master — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 06:56:47 +0000

Socrat Aman Rana Joins COTHM Tourism Leaders

COTHM Pakistan hosted Socrat Aman Rana, Secretary, Tourism, Archaeology & Museums Department, Government of Punjab, during a distinguished gathering focused on tourism development, hospitality education and professional skills development.

The gathering brought together leading voices from government, academia, international tourism training and the hospitality education sector. It created an important opportunity to discuss Pakistan’s tourism potential and the need for skilled human resources.

The participation of Socrat Aman Rana highlighted the importance of collaboration between government institutions, educational organisations and industry professionals in strengthening Pakistan’s tourism ecosystem.

Distinguished Tourism and Education Leaders

The gathering also featured Her Excellency Ina Lepel, Ambassador of Germany to Pakistan; Rana Aftab, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC); Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of the Punjab; and Klaus Kreutz, International Tourism Trainer and Former GIZ/CIM Tourism Expert.

Their presence brought together perspectives from government, higher education, tourism development and international professional training.

Furthermore, the interaction demonstrated how stronger collaboration between different sectors can contribute to the future growth of tourism, hospitality and professional education in Pakistan.

Strengthening Tourism Development in Punjab

Punjab’s rich cultural, historical and archaeological heritage offers significant opportunities for tourism development, employment and economic growth.

However, tourism growth requires more than destinations and infrastructure. It also depends on trained professionals who understand tourism operations, hospitality services, destination management and international standards.

Therefore, professional education and skills development remain essential for building a stronger and more competitive tourism ecosystem.

Tourism Education and Professional Skills

During the gathering, participants highlighted the importance of tourism education, professional training, sustainable tourism, international standards and stronger industry-academia collaboration.

COTHM Pakistan continues to focus on practical education and industry exposure to prepare students for careers in tourism and hospitality.

Through professional training, students can develop the knowledge, technical skills and confidence needed to contribute to Pakistan’s growing tourism sector. At the same time, internationally relevant skills can create opportunities in the global hospitality and tourism industry.

Building a Skilled Tourism Workforce

Sustainable tourism depends on responsible planning, skilled professionals and effective collaboration between government, academia and industry.

Tourism professionals play an important role in improving visitor experiences, supporting destination development and contributing to the long-term growth of the industry.

Moreover, stronger industry-academia linkages can help educational institutions align professional training with the evolving needs of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality sectors.

The Socrat Aman Rana COTHM gathering reinforced the importance of investing in professional skills alongside tourism infrastructure and destination development.

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