TUI Academy Hanoi
Vietnam has one of the largest youth populations in Southeast Asia, with young people aged 15–24 making up nearly 25% of its 96 million citizens. Yet they face significant barriers to employment, with young people accounting for almost half of the unemployed population. Only 21% of the workforce hold a recognised certificate, and this figure drops to just 10.7% for rural women. Without access to quality vocational training, disadvantaged young people often leave school early and take insecure jobs, exposing them to exploitation and poverty.
TUI Academy Hanoi addresses this challenge by providing a 24-month accredited hospitality training programme that combines technical skills, English, IT, and life skills within a safe and supportive environment. The goal is simple: to help vulnerable young people build sustainable careers and independent futures.
Vietnam’s growing tourism sector offers strong employment potential, yet thousands of young people remain excluded from these opportunities. Youth unemployment is persistently high, and the gap between education and labour market needs continues to widen. Employers demand practical skills and workplace readiness, but many graduates lack these competencies. Vocational education and training (VET) programmes exist, but they often fail to reach disadvantaged groups and suffer from a perception as a ‘second choice’ after formal education. This stigma, combined with limited access in rural areas, leaves vulnerable young people without pathways to decent work. For those from low-income families or street-connected backgrounds, the absence of opportunity can lead to unstable jobs, homelessness and exposure to trafficking or abuse.
TUI Academy Hanoi responds to this urgent need by creating a structured, holistic training environment that prepares young people for careers in hospitality. In partnership with KOTO, a well-established social enterprise in Vietnam, TUI Academy Hanoi delivers internationally accredited hospitality training over 24 months. Trainees live and learn at KOTO’s Training Centre and Training Restaurant in Hanoi, gaining hands-on experience from day one. Combining classroom learning with real-world practice, the curriculum covers food safety, service standards, bar operations, menu planning, and commercial cookery. English and computer lessons strengthen communication and digital skills, and life skills training builds confidence and resilience.
After the 12-months training, trainees complete a six-month internship at professional hospitality venues, supported via a stipend and meals. For the final six months, they return for advanced modules and job placement support, including interview coaching. The Academy provides accommodation, meals, hygiene products and counselling, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
TUI Academy Hanoi works with 100 disadvantaged young people, with at least eighty-five securing employment in the hospitality sector within six months of graduation. All participants benefit from welfare support, improved self-confidence and stronger English and IT skills.
By equipping young people with recognised qualifications and practical experience, TUI Academy Hanoi strengthens the hospitality workforce and promotes inclusive growth in tourism. It also challenges the stigma around vocational training, proving that skills-based education leads to respected careers. Over time, graduates become role models, inspiring others and breaking cycles of poverty.
Project Partner
Net4kids works with companies and entrepreneurs to invest in high impact projects in Asia and Africa that create lasting change for children. Their business-driven approach aligns with the CSR and sustainability goals of organisations and leads to concrete and visible results. As a matchmaker, they connect investors with carefully selected local projects that deliver measurable social impact.
More impact, more engagement, and stronger social and financial returns. The start of a better world.
