Hotel Managers School Holds Virtual Induction Ceremony, Poised to Shape Hospitality Industry’s Future

Mr. Olugbenga Sunday, Executive Director, Hotel Managers School (HMS)

Lagos, Nigeria - October 16, 2024 - Hotel Managers School (HMS) last Thursday held its inaugural induction ceremony and orientation for its pioneer students. The virtual event marked a significant milestone in the school's history and welcomed 13 students into their various courses.

The induction ceremony was attended by esteemed guests, including Dr. Michael Pinder, Chairman, Advisory Board, who commended the Executive Director/Chairman, Mr. Sunday Olugbenga, for establishing the school. Dr. Pinder praised the Chairman's vision and commitment to providing quality education in hospitality management.

Mrs. Justina Ovat, Director of Studies, Hotel Managers School, expertly coordinated the event, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all participants. Her dedication to the school's success was evident throughout the ceremony.

Mrs. Justina Ovat, Director of Studies 

In his remarks, Dr. Pinder encouraged the students to be hungry for knowledge and take advantage of the opportunities provided by HMS. He emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and teamwork in achieving success in the hospitality industry.

The pioneer students comprise individuals with vast experiences in hotel and other careers who have taken an interest in hotel and hospitality management. They have enrolled in HMS to upgrade their knowledge and excel in the industry.

Dr. Michael Pinder, Chairman, Advisory Board

The students cut across a wide range of professionals, including hotel managers, chefs, event planners, and entrepreneurs. This diverse group brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table, enriching the learning environment.

Mr. Emmanuel Frimpong, member Advisory Board from Ghana, urged the students to remain focused and committed to their studies. 

Mr. Emmanuel Frimpong, Member, Advisory Board 

He emphasized the importance of discipline and perseverance in achieving academic and professional success.

Mr. Brian Efa, a seasoned hospitality professional, congratulated the students on taking the first step towards building their careers in hospitality. Drawing from his own experience, Mr. Efa shared how enrolling in hospitality management studies in 2006 has been an exciting and profitable decision.

Lydia Akunja from Kenya, Member, Advisory Board, encouraged the students on their chosen path, urging them to demonstrate resilience and focus on the curriculum and the transformation that awaits them.

Lydia Akunja, Member, Advisory Board 

She looks forward to meeting the students soon.

The induction and orientation program aimed to familiarize students with the school's policies, procedures, and expectations. It also provided an opportunity for students to interact with faculty members and fellow students.

HMS is committed to providing high-quality education and training to prepare students for successful careers in hotel and hospitality management in Africa. The school's innovative approach and industry connections will ensure graduates are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality sector.

The induction ceremony marked the beginning of an exciting academic journey for the pioneer students. HMS looks forward to nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders and professionals.

The school's curriculum is designed to equip students with practical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to excel in the hospitality industry. With experienced faculty and industry partners, HMS is poised to become a leading institution for hospitality education.

Find our inducted students below with their expectations:

Busari Sodiq Ayobami, Operations Manager,  Yolo Island Beach Resort. Mr. Sodiq has two years experience in the hospitality industry.
Busari Sodiq Ayobami

In his words, “I’m Busari Sodiq, I’m the current Operations Manager of Yolo Island Beach Resort, Lagos. I have once worked at Breeze Beach Club Lagos as Operations Supervisor. 
My expectations joining this course is to have extensive knowledge on hotel
Operations and management.

Mebawondu Abiodun Lissa
Mebawondu Abiodun Lissa

She says her expectations joining Hotel Managers School centers around her passion to learn more about the hospitality industry.

Adegboyega Funmilayo Vera, Front Office Manager, Omnia Hotel And Suites. She has six years experience in the hospitality industry.
Adegboyega Funmilayo Vera

Speaking about her driving force joining Hotel Managers School, she says, “My name is Adegboyega Funmilayo Vera. I  have worked with House 46 Suites as the Front Office Manager/ the Stocker Officer; at Great Ville Hotels, I worked as the Front Office Manager/ Training Manager; at Pelican International Hotels, I worked as the Front Office Manager”. She currently works at Omnia Hotels and Suites where she is the Front Office Manager/the RDM.

Her expectation for joining the course is to have very good knowledge and understanding of every departments’ mode of operations and activities in the hospitality industry and how to bring to standard and excellence anywhere she works according to the hospitality SOP for customer’s satisfaction and excellent service delivery.

Ndukwe Chibuzor Chidi
Ndukwe Chibuzor Chidi

Speaking about his enrollment for the Hotel Managers School, Mr. Ndukwe explained that his expectations for the program is for aimed at his Career upgrade.

IZUOGU, Nestor Okwuchukwu
IZUOGU, Nestor Okwuchukwu

Mr. Izuogu is a proven hospitality professional with over twenty years experience on the job, and has served in different capacities. 
His aspirations centers around being the best in his field, hence the need for a constant learning.
In his words, “My expectations for this course is to  improve and fine-tune my knowledge.”

Odaranile Yusuf Alade
Odaranile Yusuf Alade

Mr. Odaranile Yusuf Alade is the Senior Resident Manager at Smart Residences Limited – Gidanka. He has eleven years experience in the hospitality industry.

In his words, “I am a seasoned hospitality expert who read Political Science & International Relations from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State.
“I've had a progressive career in hospitality, starting as a Waiter and rising to F&B Manager at Kingstone Grand Suite Hotel (5 years). I then worked as F&B Coordinator at Green Legacy Resort (6 months) before taking a break for NYSC in Abuja.
After completing NYSC in Abuja, I advanced my hospitality career through:
- Bolton White Hotel (Guest Service Agent to Acting Resident Manager)
- Gidanka by Smart Residences (Resident Manager to Senior Resident Manager)
Achievements: Exponential revenue growth and excellent service delivery.

Course expectations:
1. Learn cutting-edge hospitality management skills
2. Understand hotel management structure and functions
3. Become a certified professional
4. Explore hospitality industry opportunities. 
5. And to be a highly sought-after professional with a marketable experience that transverse the hospitality management and business ecosystem.

Onwuka Bridget Ngozi works at BON Hotel Hyatti, Warri, Delta state. She has five years experience.
Onwuka Bridget Ngozi

She is an ex-banker who worked with Union Bank of Nigeria with over thirteen years experience, after which she joined the hospitality industry as an Operations and Customer Service Manager for twelve years and still serving. 
In her words, “Currently I am with BON Hotel Hyatti in Warri, as the Duty Manager. I am (Operations Manager), I oversee all operational units, ranging from the security, front office, restaurant, kitchen, laundry and maintenance department”. 

Clinton Ufuoma Adams is currently the Manager at Ese Jones Hotel & Suites. He has six years experience in hospitality management.

In his words, “My name is Clinton  Ufuoma Adams, I reside and work in Delta State. I am the Manager of Ese Jones Hotels and Suite. 
"I managed for 4 years, previously working at Gordon's Hotel & Resort (2015-2019) where I progressed from Receptionist to Front Office Supervisor. I'm drawn to this course as it offers advanced hospitality knowledge to set me apart from peers."

"Course Objectives I seek include to:
1. Understand hotel department structures and functions
2. Implement effective management in key areas (Front Office, Housekeeping, F&B)
3. Deliver exceptional guest experiences
4. Optimize operations for efficiency, cost control, and profitability
5. Manage human resources and staff development
6. Ensure health, safety, and regulatory compliance
7. Leverage technology and data analytics for improved performance"

Olajumoke Oladeji is an Event consultant with eight years experience on the job.

Olajumoke Oladeji

Jumoke’s expectations for joining the Hotel Managers School is to have robust knowledge about hotel operations, hotel management and hospitality in general

Okeke Chinyelu Ifeoma is the the Human Resources Manager at Prince Xclusive Royale Hotel, Awka, Anambra State. She has a year experience in the hospitality industry.

Okeke Chinyelu Ifeoma

An ex banker, she joined hospitality sector barely one year ago and she ready to journey the rigorous steps of hotel business. In her words, “Attending HMC gave me the privilege to see it all and the chance to meet people who trusted me and granted me the opportunity to work with the new hotel now. Working with branded hotel is my target.
Her expectation is to become a professional manager with all it takes.”

TOWOJU Oluwande Cornelius is the Cost Controller at Riviera Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos and he has one year experience in the industry.
TOWOJU Oluwande Cornelius

In his words, “I was introduced into the Hospitality World last year and I saw the exciting Career progression in the industry; Working with some Managers, I discovered that it is only with intensive and effective learning and training a person can effectively and successfully Manage a hotel.”
Speaking about his expectations for the course, he says, “To become seasoned Manager of Choice and sought after General Manager”.

Oluwakemi Olushola is the CEO of Harrington Inn Hotel and she has eight years experience in the industry.

Oluwakemi Olushola
Speaking about herself and career, she says, “I am a seasoned hospitality professional with a track record of excellence in customer service, operation management and strategic planning.
“My expectation on this course is to have a well rounded understanding of hotel operations and management.”

Charity Isong works with Tojum Hospitality in Lagos and she has three years experience in the hospitality industry.
Charity Isong
According to Charity, her expectation joining the course is, “To develop and build my confidence in hospitality operations and management. 
Also, to familiarize myself with the industry standards and trends.”

For more information about Hotel Managers School and its programs, please contact:

Email: info@hotelmanagersschool.com 
Hotelmanagersschool2024@gmail.com 
Phone: +234 8035367918

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