Silpakorn and Vatel Join Forces to Revolutionize Vocational Hotel Education in Thailand

Bangkok Hotel Schools: In a landmark development that’s poised to reshape Thailand’s hospitality education landscape, Silpakorn University International College has entered into a formal agreement with the world-renowned Vatel Academy of France to launch a new vocational certificate program in hotel and hospitality management. The initiative marks a significant expansion of the existing partnership between the two institutions, which already offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Hotel Management.

Silpakorn University International College signs an agreement to open a vocational certificate program with Vatel Academy, France
Image Credit: Vatel Thailand

The new agreement, signed at Vatel Academy in Lyon on March 27, brings together top-level representatives from both institutions, including Silpakorn University President Professor Dr. Thanaset Ngaohiranpat and Vatel Thailand’s President. This Bangkok Hotel Schools news report confirms that the program, developed in conjunction with Thailand’s Office of the Vocational Education Commission, will deliver a curriculum that combines the strengths of French and Thai hospitality cultures with a strong focus on practical learning.

A Bold Leap in Vocational Excellence

This pioneering partnership aims to redefine vocational education in Thailand by offering students international exposure, real-world training, and dual certification. Students enrolled in the program will not only receive instruction in Thailand but will also gain hands-on experience during internships and masterclasses held at Vatel Academy in France. Graduates will be awarded certificates from both countries, giving them a competitive edge in the global job market.

Founded nearly 45 years ago in Paris, Vatel is considered the top hotel management school in France and is ranked 12th globally by QS World University Rankings. With 50 campuses across 33 countries, the institution has trained more than 45,000 professionals in the hospitality industry. Vatel’s distinctive “Learning by Doing” approach ensures that students work in real hospitality environments, such as Vatel restaurants and cafés, from the onset of their education.

Double Degrees and International Opportunities

The partnership between Silpakorn and Vatel has already been highly successful. Through the existing BBA program, students study for only three years and graduate with two degrees—one from Silpakorn and the other from Vatel. Courses are taught in English, French, and Chinese and include subjects like Hotel Management and Innovation, International Tourism Economy, and Multicultural Management. The Marco Polo exchange program further enhances the global dimension by allowing students to study at other Vatel campuses worldwide.

With small class sizes, internationally trained faculty, and a balanced curriculum of theory and practice, Vatel Thailand has already produced more than 1,500 graduates since its launch in 2003. Applications for the new vocational program are now open, with the academic year beginning September 1. Thai students aspiring to become elite hotel professionals—whether chefs, front desk managers, or future hoteliers—will now have a faster, globally recognized route to success.

During the signing ceremony, Vatel Academy honored Ms. Rapeepan Luangaramrut, co-founder of the initiative, with a Special Recognition & Appreciation Award for her outstanding contributions to food and beverage services and Franco-Thai education. In return, Silpakorn University executives presented the Vatel President with Thai souvenirs and held a traditional Songkran water ceremony—highlighting Thai soft power in action.

This new collaboration not only positions Thailand as a hub for world-class hotel education but also provides young talents with the tools and exposure to thrive on the international stage. The blend of Thai hospitality charm with French excellence is set to create a new breed of professionals who will shape the future of the service industry both locally and abroad.

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