Shinta Mani Helps to Make Dreams Come True

The inaugural class of the Shinta Mani Institute of Hospitality in Siem Reap, Cambodia graduated at the end of February 2005, after completing a 9 month course in hospitality studies focusing on the culinary arts.

Twenty one students were presented with their graduation certificates by the owner & founder of the Institute, Mr. Sokoun Chanpreda and the General Manager of Shinta Mani, Mr Arif Billah. All graduating students have now been placed in jobs at the soon to be opened five star Hotel de la Paix and other hotels in Siem Reap. This immediate job placement is a reflection of the high standards achieved by the course which focuses on core studies including English, and operational activities within all departments of a hotel. From time to time even guests of Shinta Mani interact with the students – passing on life experience and mentoring support.

Officially opened on June 7, 2004, the Shinta Mani Institute of Hospitality is a vocational training facility funded from the operations of the hotel as well as from private individuals. The students are selected by various local NGO’s in consultation with the management of the school and all are young Cambodian adults coming from areas of risk.

Besides paying no fees each student is paid a monthly stipend and given uniforms, meals, study materials and a weekly supply of 4 kilograms of rice for their families.

In accepting his graduation certificate, outstanding all round student Mr. Sophea Noreak, 21, spoke on behalf of his fellow classmates, “Getting a good education was a dream, to all of us until the Shinta Mani Hotel and Institute of Hospitality opened. When we were selected, we were so happy that finally our dreams could come true. We all have commitment as the first class of graduating students to remain involved in the school providing support and guidance to future students”.

The new Shinta Mani website www.shintamani.com provides the public with an opportunity to contribute to the school and other local community projects in Siem Reap. In addition USD5 is donated from every booking made directly to the hotel via the website.

The second class of students will commence on March 14, 2005 and the school has a long term plan to expand the number of students that can be accepted into the Institute.

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