Switzerland is widely recognised as a global leader in hospitality education, as it has long relied on hospitality as one of its primary sources of income and livelihood. Country’s intimate relationship with hospitality stems from its unique geographical and economic landscape, exemplified by the Graubünden state, the region in Switzerland with the most 4- and 5-stars hotels. And EHL (founded as Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne) in Switzerland as the oldest and most famous hospitality school in the world, is a brand that has helped this beautiful mountainous European nation to emerge as a premier destination in the field of hospitality education.
EHL’s two Swiss campuses, in Passugg and Lausanne in Switzerland are both located in notable tourism regions, each contributing to the country’s diverse and thriving hospitality landscape. Both offer a range of leading educational programs from apprenticeships to master’s degrees, as well as professional and executive education in hospitality.
As a Program Advisor at EHL in Switzerland, Arnaud Jonquet has witnessed first-hand the transformative impact of pursuing education in this picturesque country, where the roots of hospitality run deep. Speaking about his experience he says, “One of the unique offerings at EHL are its student-run restaurants, where students can work at the highest level of hospitality excellence under the guidance of Michelin Star chefs. This immersive experience not only hones their practical skills but also instils in them a deep understanding of the demands of the industry. Furthermore, EHL’s emphasis on staying abreast of industry trends ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of the hospitality sector. Concepts like sustainability, digitised guest experiences, and brand management are integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to comprehensively understand the industry’s latest developments.”
Quality education, hands-on training, campus life and bright career prospects have always attracted international students to this school. According to Jasminder Khanna, Co-Founder – Gresham Global studying in Switzerland enables students, including those from India, to have a comprehensive education beyond traditional hospitality training in the local context. “By studying at premier institutions such as EHL and interning in different parts of the world, students gain invaluable insights into global hospitality trends and business practices. The curriculum encompasses diverse facets of the industry, including luxury brand management, food and beverage, and consulting. Through hands-on experience and industry partnerships, students gain in-depth expertise into the various sectors of the hospitality industry, preparing them for successful careers in Switzerland and abroad,” he adds.
The benefits for Indian students seeking to pursue education in Switzerland are manifold. Switzerland’s multicultural environment and global reputation for hospitality education provide students with a unique opportunity to broaden their horizons and gain a global perspective. Exposure to diverse cultures and best practices equip Indian students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in an increasingly competitive industry. The success stories of alumni such as Rahul Khanna of Azure Hospitality, Gurbani Dugal of The Aurelius Partnership, and Muskaan Dadu of Dadu Sweets underscore the impact of Swiss hospitality education in shaping successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
“The school fosters a supportive environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and grow. Faculty and staff are dedicated to providing personalised guidance and support, ensuring each student receives the necessary resources to succeed academically and professionally. Complementing this, the curriculum includes two six-months internships and numerous hospitality events, allowing students to seamlessly fuse theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, augmenting their skills and employability,” says Arnaud.
Many success stories of Indian alumni who have graduated from EHL serve as a testament to the transformative power of Swiss hospitality education. From founding their own successful ventures to assuming leadership roles in renowned establishments, these alumni exemplify the limitless possibilities that await those pursuing education in Switzerland. While pursuing education in Switzerland may seem daunting, especially for international students, these universities offer various scholarships and financial aid options to ease the burden.
Additionally, EHL’s extensive network of alumni and industry partners offers students unparalleled opportunities for networking and career advancement. Through career fairs, internships, and alumni connections, students can access a global community of hospitality professionals, opening doors to exciting career prospects in Switzerland and worldwide.
As India witnesses an influx of foreign tourists, the demand for hospitality and service-oriented businesses within is set to rise and therefore the demand for highly trained professionals is also going to climb. So, if you have aptitude and think EHL is the right place for your professional education do check the courses and fees here.
