A note from the Chairman, Peter Bonini:

“There is nothing a Palauan cannot do; we just need the tools to do it.”

We come to ask for your assistance in building our house.

The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Ministry of Education, Palau Community College and Belau Tourism Association signed on January 29, 2009, is the cornerstone of a shared vision and commitment for the future of Palau’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry.

The signing spearheaded a fund raising launch to raise US $750,000 to refurbish/recycle a former dorm at Palau Community College into a state of the art Tourism and Hospitality practical School of Excellence. Several government and non government organizations have already pledged considerable funds (approximately US $529,990.00); the outstanding balance still needed to make this plan a reality is $224,010.00.

The School of Excellence would boast a commercial kitchen, restaurant, bar and alfresco area opened to the general public at cost prices, together with a purchasing, receiving area and comfort rooms. The second floor would house a hotel suite, reception, reservation and concierge area. In addition to a faculty area both classroom area upstairs would be dual practicum and theory classrooms.

The school plans to use renewable energy, environmentally friendly products, using solar panels for energy and energy efficient lighting where ever possible. In addition the school would recycle paper, plastic, glass and aluminum cans for sale. Ideally the school would also like to create a compose section and grow organic spices using recycled water.

The school aims to train and equip students in a non threatening environment with a range of skills, knowledge and confidence needed by our growing industry.  It is designed for young and old alike to create opportunities for those wishing to join or those already employed in the industry to utilize refresher programs and to enhance their customer service skills.

It is also hoped that the school will help spark interest, create enthusiasm for work experience programs and profile tourism and hospitality careers as meaningful, rewarding and worthwhile career options. It is also acknowledged that in an increasingly competitive world, the employers are requiring employees to have qualifications and training in fundamental skills before they are able to gain successful employment.

This auspicious plan which has been years in the making and will only have succeeded when students are fully trained, educated to an international standard and are ready to work in Palau’s most crucial industry, Tourism & Hospitality. I encourage you to donate toward this important and worthwhile project.

Peter Bonini
Chairman Grant Education & Training (GET)