International Balkan University’s (IBU) Lifelong Learning Center (LLC) has entered into memorandums of cooperation with four hotels to foster a collaborative relationship aimed at enhancing training, internship, and event opportunities within the hospitality industry.

This partnership is designed to support IBU LLC's Lifelong Learning initiative by utilizing the hotels' facilities for various educational and professional development activities.

Specifically, the memorandums were signed with Limak Skopje Luxury Hotel, Skopje Marriott Hotel, Parkland Group DOOEL Skopje, and DTUS Stonebridge Hotel DOO Skopje.

On behalf of LLC, the memorandums were signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Lökçe, Coordinator of LLC, while on behalf of the hotels: Limak Skopje Luxury Hotel was represented by General Manager Gökhan Ramazanoğlu; Skopje Marriott Hotel by General Manager Oğuz Eruygun; Parkland Group DOOEL Skopje by Management Board Member Altin Maliqi; and DTUS Stonebridge Hotel DOO Skopje by General Manager Gjore Velkovski.

Also present at the memorandum signing ceremony were the Rector of IBU, Prof. Dr. Lutfi Sunar, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Liza Alili Sulejmani, the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences.

Under the terms of the agreement, IBU LLC will organize and conduct customized training programs based on the specific needs and requests of each hotel. These exclusive programs may include advanced culinary skills, high-standard housekeeping practices, front desk operations, and hospitality management, all designed to enhance skill development and industry knowledge in line with the hotels' standards.

Additionally, IBU LLC will collaborate with the hotels to offer structured internship programs for students, providing them with valuable, hands-on experience in different hotel departments. These internships will be scheduled to align with both the academic calendar of IBU LLC and the operational needs of the hotels, offering students a practical understanding of the hospitality industry.

The agreement also outlines IBU LLC’s Career Center's role in facilitating employment opportunities for qualified trainees and interns. Through a streamlined process, the Career Center will share a portfolio of skilled candidates with the hotels, allowing them to review and select individuals who meet their employment criteria.

Finally, IBU LLC and the hotels will work together to organize collaborative events, workshops, and educational programs, such as guest lectures, industry seminars, and workshops on emerging trends. These joint efforts aim to foster professional growth within the hospitality sector, with the hotels providing venue space, logistical support, and other necessary resources for these initiatives.