Amman Ahliyya University and Accor Group Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Applied Education in Hospitality

Amman Ahliyya University and the global hospitality group Accor have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in practical training, academic program development, and aligning higher education outcomes with the evolving needs of the hospitality and hotel industry. The agreement was signed on behalf of Amman Ahliyya University by Professor Ahmad Hamdan, Acting President of the University, and on behalf of Accor by Verona Naidoo, Vice President of Talent and Culture for the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye. The signing ceremony was attended by several representatives from Accor, including Khaled Bani Amer, Director of Talent and Culture for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Levant; Michael Nugent, Vice President of Operations for the Levant, Gulf, and Pakistan; Ayman Rashid, General Manager of Mövenpick Hotel Amman and Mövenpick Al Zaytouna Baghdad; and Safaa Rahhal, Cluster Marketing and Communications Manager for Mövenpick Hotels Jordan. Representing the University was Chef Jehan Sahawneh, Executive Director of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management. The partnership forms part of Amman Ahliyya University's strategic vision to expand collaboration with leading international organizations, enhancing students' professional skills and preparing them to compete successfully in local, regional, and global labor markets. Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding, both parties will collaborate to review and develop academic programs in line with the rapidly evolving hospitality industry. The agreement also supports practical training and work-integrated learning opportunities within Accor properties across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, while promoting the exchange of expertise to strengthen the professional competencies of both students and faculty members. The partnership further provides opportunities for internships and potential employment for the University's students and graduates, in accordance with Accor's recruitment policies and selection procedures. In addition, Accor will participate in the University's career fairs and professional events and contribute to the academic experience through specialized lectures and workshops delivered by industry experts. Professor Ahmad Hamdan emphasized that the partnership represents a strategic step toward strengthening applied education and creating broader opportunities for students to benefit from the expertise of one of the world's leading hospitality groups. He noted that the collaboration aligns with Amman Ahliyya University's vision of preparing graduates who combine academic excellence with the practical skills required to succeed in today's competitive hospitality industry. The signing of the agreement coincided with the launch of the SheLeads Levant initiative, during which Chef Jehan Sahawneh was honored by being appointed an Honorary Ambassador for the Levant. The recognition acknowledges her outstanding contributions to empowering women, promoting their leadership in the hospitality and culinary sectors, and supporting female leadership in education and professional training.