In a landmark moment for Pakistan’s hospitality and tourism education sector, Ahmad Shafiq, Founder, President & CEO of COTHM Pakistan and COTHM Global, has been honored with the prestigious Outstanding Contribution in Hospitality Education Award in recognition of his visionary leadership and exceptional services to hospitality education and professional skills development.
The distinguished award was presented by Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, acknowledging Ahmad Shafiq’s remarkable contributions to transforming hospitality education and preparing thousands of young professionals for successful careers in Pakistan and around the world.
The recognition highlights Ahmad Shafiq’s decades-long commitment to building an internationally recognized institution that has become a leading force in hospitality, culinary arts, tourism, aviation, baking, and professional education. Under his leadership, COTHM has established strong partnerships with global institutions and industry leaders, enabling Pakistani students to access internationally accredited qualifications, world-class training, and career opportunities across the global hospitality sector.
Presenting the award, Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani praised the importance of institutions that equip young people with industry-relevant skills and contribute to Pakistan’s economic development through quality education and workforce development. He emphasized that investing in professional education is essential for strengthening tourism, hospitality, and employment opportunities across the country.
Receiving the honor, Ahmad Shafiq expressed his heartfelt gratitude and dedicated the award to the faculty, students, alumni, industry partners, and the entire COTHM family.
“This recognition belongs to every teacher who has inspired a student, every student who dared to dream, and every industry partner who believed in our mission. At COTHM, we remain committed to empowering Pakistan’s youth with globally competitive skills and creating future leaders who will proudly represent our country on the international stage,” he said.
Over the years, COTHM has produced thousands of graduates serving in leading hotels, restaurants, airlines, cruise lines, and tourism organizations across the world. The institution continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Pakistan as a center of excellence for hospitality education through innovation, international collaboration, and industry-driven learning.
The award marks another significant milestone in COTHM’s journey and reaffirms its mission of advancing hospitality education, strengthening tourism development, and preparing a globally competitive workforce for the future.
