Ahmad Shafiq, Founder, President and CEO of COTHM Global, accompanied by Richard Sprenger, Chairman of Highfield International, held a significant meeting with Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), to explore opportunities for strengthening collaboration and supporting the growth of Pakistan’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
The meeting focused on identifying potential areas of cooperation in tourism development, promoting international standards, strengthening professional skills and building stronger connections between education, vocational training and the tourism industry.
During the discussion, the participants explored the importance of developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the global tourism and hospitality markets. The conversation also highlighted the role of international partnerships and professional qualifications in improving service standards, enhancing industry competitiveness and creating greater career opportunities for Pakistani youth.
Ahmad Shafiq highlighted COTHM Global’s commitment to advancing hospitality and tourism education through industry-oriented training, international collaborations and professional development initiatives. He emphasised the importance of connecting academic institutions with relevant industry stakeholders to ensure that students and emerging professionals acquire practical skills aligned with international requirements.
Richard Sprenger’s participation brought an international perspective to the engagement, particularly regarding professional training, internationally recognised qualifications and the importance of maintaining quality standards across service-oriented industries.
Aftab ur Rehman Rana’s engagement with the delegation provided an opportunity to discuss the role of institutional cooperation in promoting Pakistan as a tourism destination and supporting the development of a more competitive tourism ecosystem.
Pakistan possesses significant tourism potential, encompassing its cultural heritage, historical destinations, diverse landscapes, adventure tourism opportunities and rich hospitality traditions. Realising this potential requires coordinated efforts in professional education, workforce development, destination promotion and service quality.
The meeting underscored the importance of stronger partnerships between educational institutions, international qualification providers and national tourism organisations in supporting the country’s long-term tourism ambitions.
Through such strategic engagements, COTHM Global continues to pursue opportunities that bridge education and industry, strengthen international connections and prepare the next generation of tourism and hospitality professionals for opportunities in Pakistan and across the world.
