COTHM marked another proud milestone as Mr. Ahmad Shafiq, Founder, President & CEO of COTHM Group, was conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree by Bahçeşehir University (BAU Global), Northern Cyprus, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to hospitality education, academic leadership, and skills development.
The prestigious ceremony was attended by prominent national leaders and tourism stakeholders, including Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Mr. Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Tourism, and Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, a leading figure in Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Receiving the honorary doctorate, Ahmad Shafiq expressed his gratitude and dedicated the recognition to the entire COTHM family.
Ahmad Shafiq said:
“This honorary doctorate is not just a personal achievement but a tribute to every student, faculty member, and partner who has been part of COTHM’s journey. Our mission has always been to empower young people through quality education, practical skills, and international opportunities. We will continue working to elevate Pakistan’s hospitality education to global standards.”
Congratulating Ahmad Shafiq on the prestigious recognition, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, praised his contribution to youth development and professional education.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan said:
“Ahmad Shafiq has played a transformative role in equipping Pakistan’s youth with internationally recognized skills. His dedication to education and workforce development is creating opportunities for thousands of young Pakistanis, and this international recognition is well deserved.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, Managing Director of PTDC and Advisor to the Prime Minister on Tourism, highlighted the importance of quality hospitality education in strengthening Pakistan’s tourism sector.
Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana said: “A strong tourism industry depends on a highly skilled hospitality workforce. COTHM has made an exceptional contribution by producing competent professionals who represent Pakistan with excellence around the world. This honor reflects Ahmad Shafiq’s remarkable leadership and vision.”
Also addressing the gathering, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan commended COTHM’s continued efforts in promoting international standards of education and supporting the growth of Pakistan’s hospitality industry.
Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan said: “COTHM has become a symbol of excellence in hospitality education. Ahmad Shafiq’s visionary leadership has built an institution that continues to inspire innovation, professionalism, and global collaboration. This honorary doctorate is a proud moment for Pakistan’s education and tourism sectors.”
The ceremony concluded with congratulations from distinguished guests, academics, and industry leaders, who described the award as a significant international recognition of Ahmad Shafiq’s lifelong commitment to educational excellence, leadership, and the advancement of Pakistan’s hospitality and tourism industries.
This latest achievement further strengthens COTHM’s global reputation and reinforces its commitment to developing future leaders through world-class education, innovation, and international partnerships.
