The COTHM Convocation in Islamabad gathered students, industry leaders and government representatives as graduates from hospitality, culinary arts, baking and patisserie, travel and airline operations, food and nutrition sciences and life skills received diplomas and certificates for their achievement.
Graduands were celebrated for practical competence and readiness for the workforce, reflecting COTHM’s focus on applied learning. The convocation highlighted partnerships between education and industry that open pathways to employment and entrepreneurship across Pakistan’s growing tourism and hospitality sectors.
Founded in 2002, COTHM has trained more than 55,000 professionals and operates over 20 campuses nationwide plus a campus in Dubai. This footprint underscores the institution’s role in building a skilled workforce and supporting regional tourism development through vocational and professional education.
Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, praised the value of hospitality education and urged graduates to use their skills to support economic growth. Her remarks stressed the untapped potential of Pakistan’s tourism industry and the importance of quality vocational training in creating sustainable careers.
The ceremony included distinguished Guests of Honour such as the
Ambassadors of Sri Lanka, the Charge d’Affaires from Canada and Indonesia, the Managing Director of PTDC, and senior industry and academic figures. Their presence reinforced links between training institutions and employers, signalling new opportunities for graduates.
Ahmad Shafique, CEO of COTHM, reiterated the institute’s commitment to expanding hospitality and tourism education across the country. He outlined plans to extend COTHM’s reach to additional regions, emphasising that skill-based learning can empower youth and contribute to long-term socio-economic progress.
As diplomas and certificates were presented, the COTHM Convocation closed with a clear message: graduates are ready to carry the institution’s legacy into professional life and to support Pakistan’s emergence as a competitive destination for travel and hospitality services.
