Santosh Shah provides hospitality training to people with impaired hearings

Kathmandu, Dec. 27

BBC MasterChef Santosh Shah, in collaboration with GATE Polytechnic Institute, has concluded a campaign to provide free hospitality training for individuals with hearing and listening impairments.

The campaign gained support through CONNOPPO – a charity organisation, with initial funding raised during a charity dinner organised in Switzerland, the organisers informed in a statement on Friday.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Shah reflected on the initiative’s impact, and said, “This is not just about providing skills, but also about promoting inclusivity. When given the right guidance and opportunities, people with disabilities can make significant contributions to society. This is just the beginning; we need to strengthen our efforts.” 

According to Shah, the programme specifically targets individuals who are hearing and listening impaired, focusing on enhancing their self-reliance and professional capabilities. “This has been part of our long-term plan, and in the first phase, we have celebrated the graduation of trained professionals this Sunday,” Shah shared. “We are also ensuring employment opportunities for these skilled individuals, paving the way for a more inclusive future.” 

To date, 31 participants have completed training in various aspects of hotel management, including barista skills, housekeeping, and bakery operations. Looking ahead, the initiative will continue to provide 390 hours of specialised training to hearing-impaired youth starting in early 2024, with certificates of completion awarded upon graduation. Shah also highlighted the success of similar empowering CSR initiatives previously conducted in Janakpur through Mithila Thali. 

Bibek Poudel, General Manager of GATE Polytechnic, said that while initially challenged by the absence of interpreters, the initiative has overcome barriers and significantly improved accessibility. “Training for six youths began in 2024 as UNICEF members recommended students. As the program proved successful, it has expanded, and by the end of this year, 31 individuals will have received free training,” Poudel explained.

The campaign has also seen active participation from the National Federation of the Deaf Nepal, Gandaki Deaf Association, represented by Santosh KC, its president, and other concerned stakeholders, underscoring its collaborative and inclusive ethos. The ceremony also featured remarks from Prof. Dr. Kashiraj Pandey and journalist Gajendra Budhathoki, who lauded the initiative’s positive impact and tangible results.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 28 December 2024.