by Maria Driscoll

A second Educational Joint Venture Agreement was signed recently between Holland College and Zhenjiang College to jointly deliver the Atlantic Tourism and Hospitality Institute's Hotel and Restaurant Management program in China. This agreement follows the success of the first Joint Venture, the Business Programmer Analyst profile of the Business Information Technology program, which is now offered at four Chinese colleges.

"One of the most popular North American programs in China at this time is the area of hotel and restaurant operations," commented Albert Roche, ATHI Programs Director. "The offering of our Hotel and Restaurant Management program in China provides an additional option to those Chinese students who want to study a North American program."

A delegation from Zhenjiang College led by Mr. Tang Chenghai, Director of the Committee of Administrative Affairs, Mr. Men Hong, Director of the President's Office, Mr. Xie Zhirong, Director of the Electronics and Information Department, and Mr. Tang Xiangjin, Interpreter, visited the College in June. While the highlight of their visit was the signing ceremony, they took the time to tour ATHI and Holland College facilities and visit with Chinese instructors who are currently taking three-months of practicum training at the College.

"The tourism industry is one of the fastest growing industries in China and since becoming a member of the World Trade Organization, it is expected to grow even further as more foreigners are encouraged to visit China. This is creating a significant demand in China for people with advanced skills to support this industry. Both College's recognized the need and the opportunity to deliver the Hotel and Restaurant Management program in Zhenjiang College", stated Keith Dewar, Vice-President of Holland College.

Beginning in September, 2002, first year preparatory students will complete fundamental courses required by the Chinese College. In the second and third years, the Hotel and Restaurant Management program will be delivered. Students completing the program in China will receive diplomas from both Zhenjiang and Holland College. An optional three month course will be offered in Prince Edward Island during the summer months between the second and third year.