CDS Skill Centre/VTCY Holds 7th Batch Valedictory Ceremony for Hospitality Trainees

Community Development Society (CDS) held the 7th Batch Valedictory Ceremony of its Hospitality – Food and Beverage Training Programme on 29 October 2026 at 10:30 AM at the CDS Skill Centre, Synod House, Hill Town, Lamka, Churachandpur, Manipur.

The programme was chaired by Hoihte, Trainer at the Vocational Training Centre for Youth (VTCY). Lamcy Haokip, Centre Head, delivered the keynote address and presented a brief report on the training programme. Krishna Kumar, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur, attended as the Chief Guest and distributed certificates and offer letters to the trainees. Rev. Chinkhengoupau Buansing, Youth Coordinator of EBC, offered a prayer of thanksgiving and prayed for the trainees’ future endeavours. Lianzamung Tonsing, President of CDS, and Vunglawmkim S. Gangte, representing the 7th batch, also shared their messages. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Samuel T. Khuplalson, Accountant of CDS.

CDS Skill Centre, also known as the Vocational Training Centre for Youth, was established in 2025 with support from IndiGo CSR to provide hospitality training and job opportunities for young people. Since its establishment, 191 trainees have completed the Food and Beverage training programme and approximately 90% have secured jobs at four-star and five-star hotels in different parts of India.

Of the 26 trainees enrolled in the 7th batch, 23 successfully completed the course, while three could not complete the training due to personal reasons. The 8th batch is preparing for assessment and training is also underway for the 8th and 9th batches. Admission for the 10th batch is currently open.

Addressing the course completed trainees, Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar congratulated them on completing the course and encouraged them to work hard towards their future goals. He reminded them that the journey towards success is just as important as reaching the destination. He also stressed the need for clear goals, hard work and commitment, advising the trainees not to wait for opportunities but to work towards achieving their ambitions. He appreciated CDS for its efforts to support young people and the local community and encouraged the organisation to continue its work. He also expressed concern that many talented and educated young people in Churachandpur were unable to make full use of their abilities. Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he encouraged the youth to take responsibility for contributing to the country's development. He further appreciated IndiGo CSR for supporting the training programme in Churachandpur district and urged the media to give greater attention to positive developments and good work in society.

Rev. Chinkhengoupau Buansing, Youth Coordinator, EBC, reminded the course completed students that although a job may look attractive from the outside, the actual work can be challenging. He advised them not to expect everything to be easy after receiving their offer letters. Encouraging them to dream big and work towards their goals, he also urged them to remain faithful to their beliefs wherever they might be posted. He offered prayers for the trainees and also for the future plans of the training centre and CDS.

Lianzamung Tonsing, President of CDS, congratulated the trainees and encouraged them to be sincere, hardworking and responsible in their new workplaces. He advised those moving to different cities for employment to stay connected with their home community by joining local community organisations, welfare associations or fellowships. He reminded them that success requires hard work and perseverance and encouraged them to remain God-fearing throughout their careers.

Lamcy Haokip highlighted that most of the trainees who completed the course have already secured jobs, while placement interviews are continuing for those who are still seeking employment.

A total of 24 offer letters were distributed during the ceremony. The selected trainees are expected to join their respective workplaces shortly and begin their professional careers.

With support from IndiGo CSR, CDS provides free hospitality training to young people, equipping them with practical skills and helping them secure jobs, support their families and contribute to the development of their communities.