Academic advancement with Congrex Switzerland partnership

Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) and Congrex Switzerland are delighted to announce a strategic partnership aimed at nurturing tomorrow's talent in the events industry. This new alliance embodies the spirit of progressive, contemporary learning while steeped in hospitality tradition, creating a platform for students aspiring to be industry role models and leaders. This partnership is especially timely in today’s fast-paced, evolving world, where the fusion of academic knowledge and practical skills is vital for success. With Congrex Switzerland, SHMS makes deeper connections with professionals in events planning, giving SHMS students the chance to learn from today’s best in an academic setting as well as more career and internship opportunities. This is especially exciting news for students who choose to specialize in event management, such as those in the Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts programs. 

"We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Congrex Switzerland, a company that shares our deep-rooted commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the hospitality and events industry," says Dr. Dominic Szambowski, Dean of SHMS. "This collaboration more than aligns seamlessly with our ethos of excellence–it also opens up educational opportunities for our students, bridging academic theory with real-world applications. Together, we look forward to shaping the future of the world of events hospitality.”

Congrex Switzerland mirrors this sentiment, emphasizing the broader societal responsibility for shaping the future through education. "In a world of constant change and evolving industries, investing in the education and development of the younger generation is not just an option; it's a responsibility," said a spokesperson from Congrex Switzerland. "This collaboration signifies our dedication to supporting the next generation of industry leaders. Through this partnership, we aim to create a platform for young talents aspiring to excel in the world of event and hospitality management." 

The partnership between SHMS and Congrex Switzerland brings together two institutions with resonant principles when it comes to education and industry authority. SHMS is renowned for its commitment to providing excellence in hospitality, luxury, and events education, while Congrex Switzerland is a leading player in the conference and association management sector, driven by a strong foundation of customer service, events innovation, and the spirit of progress. 

Both organizations recognize the importance of a holistic approach to education. Beyond academic achievements, students learn to succeed through personal growth, leadership, and adaptability. These are the soft skills that are often unmeasured yet profoundly impact a student’s ability to succeed in the modern world. 

(Click to read more about the value of soft skills and how SHMS better prepares students for a successful career in the real world.) 

What does this alliance mean in practical terms? The overarching aim is to provide SHMS students with an industry-relevant curriculum supplemented by real-world experiences facilitated in collaboration with Congrex Switzerland. While students in the event management specialization programs will benefit most strongly, all SHMS students stand to gain valuable insight on contemporary practices in today’s global hospitality and events industries, which are inextricably linked.

Students will have opportunities to intern or work on projects directly aligned with the needs and demands of today's event management industry. These engagements will provide invaluable on-the-ground exposure, opening doors for job placements, and even sparking entrepreneurial initiatives. 

Leadership development is a cornerstone of this partnership. Both SHMS and Congrex Switzerland emphasize the significance of leadership skills in their respective spheres. Students will benefit from workshops, seminars, and experiences that instill a culture of leadership and inspire them to be trailblazers in their careers.

Moreover, there is a clear intent to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that students don't just excel in academic tests but are also adept at solving real-world challenges. As with our partnerships with other industry leaders, this partnership with Congrex Switzerland further provides a link between academia and industry, giving students a head-start in their careers. 

While the collaboration between SHMS and Congrex Switzerland strengthens the network between education and industry within the Swiss sphere, the impact is beyond country borders. Given the international focus of both SHMS and Congrex Switzerland, there is an emphasis on providing a global perspective to students. Though they are based in Basel, Switzerland, Congrex Switzerland is a Professional Conference Organizer (PCO) that organizes and manages conferences across the globe. Since SHMS is proud of our international diversity and multicultural learning, the curriculum and associated programs have an international flavor, offering students a worldview while also honing skills that are locally applicable. This will equip students with a diverse skill set that is equally effective on an international stage.

As hospitality and events industries continuously evolve, the need for skilled professionals who can adapt and innovate becomes more pressing. The partnership between Swiss Hotel Management School and Congrex Switzerland addresses this need head-on.

"At Congrex Switzerland, we understand the importance of holistic education," the Congrex statement continued. "Our programs will not only focus on academic achievements but also on personal growth, leadership, and adaptability—essential qualities for success in the modern world."

This partnership between Swiss Hotel Management School and Congrex Switzerland stands as a commitment to excellence, adaptability, and the development of future leaders. Both organizations are poised to make significant contributions to the broader educational ecosystem for hospitality and events. Together, we're not just shaping individual careers; we're shaping the future of our industry.