In a groundbreaking move, the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), a state institute under the Ministry of Tourism, organized its 5th MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions & Events) Training Programme for the regional hoteliers on November 1, 2023 at the Araliya Green Hills in Nuwara Eliya. This event was organized for the first time in the region, marking a significant milestone for the growing business events sector.
Supported by the Nuwara Eliya Hoteliers Association (NEHA), the training session proved to be a resounding success, emphasizing the region’s commitment to promoting itself as a premier destination for MICE activities both domestically and internationally.
The event drew the participation of key figures from the potential event and hospitality industry, showcasing the thriving business event sector in the region. Notably, the training highlighted the resilience and ingenuity of Nuwara Eliya’s business event industry, focusing on attracting international buyers and contributing to forex inflow into the country.
Kumudu Hennedige, Manager Research, Development & Training at SLCB, set the tone with an inaugural speech welcoming distinguished guests, panelists, speakers, and participants. She emphasized the training’s significance, revolving around the theme “How to promote the region for Business Events & Incentive Travel.”
The event, commenced with a panel discussion featuring key industry leaders Mr. Shaam Weerasooriya, President of the Nuwara Eliya Hoteliers Association, Mr. Suresh Abbas, General Manager of Grand Hotel, Mr. Rohan Withanagamage, General Manager of Araliya Red, and Mrs. Kumudu Hennedige, Manager of Research, Development & Training at SLCB, delved into the vital topic of “How to promote the region for Business Events & Incentive Travel.” Moderated by Mr. Ziyan Ameen, the discussion addressed business concerns, emphasizing the demand for resources and a sustainable work culture within the event industry.
The event featured prominent personalities from the hospitality and event industry, including Mrs. Paddy Paul, Managing Director of Golden Isle Pvt Ltd and member of SLAPCEO, and Mr. Ziyan Ameen, General Manager of Conventions & Exhibitions at Aitken Spence Travels. They shared insights on the expectations of Destination Management Companies and Conference Organizers, as well as strategies to bring local and international events to the region.
This MICE Training Programme in Nuwara Eliya marked a pivotal moment, setting the stage for the region’s dominance in the global business events landscape. With collaborative efforts from SLCB, NEHA, and industry leaders, Nuwara Eliya is poised to become a premier hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions & Events.
SLCB will continue its efforts to uplift the skills of the hoteliers so that they are fully geared up to serve MICE travelers in the upcoming seasons of 2024.
