School of Hospitality and Tourism successfully hosted an exclusive guest lecture featuring Patrick Taffin d’Heursel, Dean of the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS), one of the world’s most globally recognized institutions in hospitality education. The session, held from 10.00 AM to 12.00 PM at the HELP Gallery, brought together 21 students, 3 lecturers, and 5 alumni for an engaging and insightful learning experience.
The lecture, titled “MICE Markets: Festival Case Study,” explored key operational and customer‑experience elements behind global mega‑events such as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Coldplay’s large‑scale concerts. Through real‑world examples, Patrick highlighted how marketing, ticketing, queuing, and transport logistics contribute to seamless event management skills essential for hospitality students stepping into the international marketplace.
Speaking to the participants, Patrick emphasized that excellence in hospitality goes far beyond technical skills. He shared that the cornerstone of world‑class service lies in understanding people, anticipating their needs, and creating seamless, memorable experiences a philosophy that has long placed Swiss hospitality education at the forefront of global standards. The session gave HELP students, alumni, and academic staff a rare opportunity to learn directly from a global leader who embodies the highest levels of professionalism and industry expertise. Discussions throughout the lecture encouraged participants to reflect on the evolving expectations of modern travelers and event attendees, and how hospitality professionals can adapt, innovate, and lead. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to interact with an international hospitality expert, noting that the session deepened their understanding of customer‑centric service and the strategic thinking required in event and hospitality management.
The event also spotlighted the exciting and fast-growing collaboration between HELP University and the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS), opening a world of international opportunities for our students. Through this partnership, HELP undergraduates can embark on a credit‑transfer mobility program, giving them the chance to study within SHMS’s globally renowned hospitality curriculum long recognized as the gold standard in the industry. Students may further elevate their experience through a six‑week study mobility program, where they immerse themselves in Swiss hospitality culture and learn directly from international experts. For those seeking a shorter yet impactful global exposure, the partnership also offers a 7‑day Summer Excursion in Switzerland, an all‑inclusive package covering accommodation, meals, industry visits, and collated learning experiences (excluding flights). Together, these programs create a powerful, immersive pathway for HELP students to experience world‑class hospitality education and build a truly global outlook.
HELP University continues to collaborate with leading institutions such as SHMS to expose students to world class insights, preparing them to thrive in the competitive and fast evolving global hospitality landscape.