CDS Skill Centre Holds 3rd Valedictory Ceremony and Celebrates THSC Affiliation

Community Development Society (CDS) held the 3rd Valedictory Ceremony for Hospitality – Food & Beverages trainees on 29 June 2026 at CDS Skill Centre, Synod House, Hilltown, Lamka. The occasion also celebrated an important milestone for the Centre with the grant of Affiliation and Accreditation by the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).

The programme was chaired by Ms. Marina Lalchhanhimi, Trainer. Ms. Lamcy Haokip, Centre Coordinator, delivered the Keynote Address and shared a brief report on the progress of the training programme. Shri S. Khaikhopau Ngaihte, MCS, Joint Secretary (Transport), Government of Manipur, attended as the Chief Guest.

Upa Dr. N. Thangkhansiam, NDPN Coordinator, EBC, offered a thanksgiving prayer for the THSC Affiliation and Accreditation and prayed for the trainees as they prepared to begin their professional careers. Mr. Lianzamung Tonsing, President, CDS, also addressed the gathering, while Ms. Jenny Ngaineihlun, Trainer, concluded the programme with a Vote of Thanks.

The day was particularly meaningful for the 33 trainees of the 3rd Batch who successfully completed their Food & Beverages training. Of the 33 trainees, 30 have secured placements, while three opted not to take placement. Some of the placed trainees have already joined their respective workplaces.

During the programme, Shri S. Khaikhopau Ngaihte presented Completion Certificates and Offer Letters to the trainees. Addressing them, he described the presence of such a skill training centre in Lamka as a valuable opportunity for the district. He encouraged the trainees to carry the knowledge, skills and discipline learned during their training into their workplaces and to maintain professionalism as they build their careers in the hospitality industry.

CDS Skill Centre was started in 2025 with support from IndiGo CSR to provide employment-linked skill training opportunities to local youth. Since its inception, more than 70 youths have completed Hospitality – Food & Beverages training, with around 90 percent securing placements in 4-star and 5-star hotels across different cities in India.

The programme continues to grow with new batches of trainees. The 4th Batch is preparing for assessment and completion of training, while the 5th and 6th Batches are currently undergoing training. Admission for the 7th Batch is also open.

The Hospitality – Food & Beverages training is fully supported by IndiGo CSR and provided free of cost. Trainees are not charged any training fee and are provided with training materials, food and refreshments during the training period. On completion of training, CDS Skill Centre also provides placement support to help trainees move from training into employment.

The Valedictory Ceremony was not only a celebration of the achievements of the 3rd Batch but also an important step forward for CDS Skill Centre. The THSC Affiliation and Accreditation further strengthens the Centre’s efforts to provide quality, industry-linked skill training and create better employment opportunities for youth in the district.