Industry Leaders Gather at HKCT Culinary Student Luncheon to Exchange
Practical Insights and Witness Teaching Outcomes
Hong Kong College of Technology (“HKCT”) hosted the “HKCT Culinary Student Luncheon” on 30 April 2026. The luncheon was fully prepared and executed by students from the Higher Diploma in Tourism Management programme. Through a carefully curated Western menu and attentive, professional service, students showcased the knowledge and skills they have acquired, while offering guests a firsthand opportunity to witness their growth and development in the professional field.
The guest list for the event was coordinated by Mr. Caspar Tsui, Executive Director of the Federation of Hong Kong Hotel Owners and External Advisor of Higher Diploma in Tourism Management of HKCT. The luncheon aimed to deepen and implement the collaboration outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding previously signed between the two parties. By providing students with an authentic professional setting and valuable opportunities to engage with industry practitioners, the event further strengthened academia–industry collaboration, ensuring that graduates are well equipped to meet market demands and that talent development aligns closely with the evolving needs of the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Industry Leaders Engage with Students to Broaden Professional Perspectives
The event was attended by a number of distinguished guests from both the political and hospitality sectors, including Hon. Vivian KONG, SBS, MH, Legislative Council Member (Tourism); Hon Perry YIU, MH, JP and Hon. Alan CHAN, both Legislative Council Members with extensive experience in the tourism industry; Mr. Wilson LEE, Acting Chairman of the Hong Kong Hotels Association and General Manager of Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin; Ms. Sherona SHNG, Second Vice Chairman of the Hong Kong Hotels Association and Managing Director of The Langham, Hong Kong; as well as senior representatives from Harbour Plaza Hotels and Resorts.
The presence of these prominent leaders was deeply meaningful to the students. It not only affirmed their learning achievements but also provided a rare opportunity to engage directly with top industry professionals. Such exchanges helped broaden students’ industry perspectives and inspired them to pursue excellence in their future professional careers.
Hands-on Experience Demonstrates Excellence in Hospitality Management and Adaptability
During the luncheon, students took full responsibility for every aspect of the operation—from menu design and food presentation to front-of-house service—demonstrating a high level of professionalism. Guests unanimously praised the quality of the cuisine, the exquisite presentation, and the attentive service.
Throughout the preparation process, students also demonstrated outstanding adaptability and problem-solving skills. Despite being informed of special dietary requirements only a few days prior to the event, the first-year students responded swiftly by making appropriate arrangements and creating tailored menus to meet guests’ needs. This experience has provided them with invaluable practical exposure, further strengthening their readiness to excel in both their studies and future careers.
The event not only highlighted the students’ solid professional competencies but also underscored HKCT’s commitment to nurturing graduates with the agility and awareness required to meet real-world workplace challenges. The students’ thoughtful service and professional attitude were widely commended. Ms Vivian KONG spoke highly of the specially prepared vegan dishes, particularly the gluten-free Italian bread. She remained at the HKCT Catering Training Centre after the luncheon and visited the HKCT Culinary Training Kitchen to interact with students. Ms. KONG praised their dedication, creativity, and teamwork, and encouraged them by saying: “I’m sure the tourism sector would be eager to welcome our students to the hospitality industry and draw from their creativity around service and inspirations for reinventing tourism. Can’t wait to see what our students will achieve in the future!”
Strengthening Vocational Education to Align Seamlessly with Industry Needs
HKCT is committed to advancing vocational and professional education with a balanced emphasis on both theory and practice. Through close partnerships with industry organisations, the College continues to create diversified, market-oriented learning opportunities for students.
Looking ahead, HKCT will continue to collaborate with its industry partners to provide more experiential learning opportunities like this luncheon, with the aim of nurturing internationally competitive professionals to support the sustainable growth and development of Hong Kong’s tourism and hospitality industries.
