PHUKET: An initiative launched by a Patong businessman is expected to improve language skills and service skills across the tourism industry on Phuket.
The Network Centre of Language Skill Development in Support of the Tourism Industry has been established by Pisona Group leader Preechavude ''Prab'' Keesin with the involvement of the Department of Skill Development.
The Director of the Department, Jiraporn Kesonrnrujarit, launched the venture yesterday in Patong with Khun Prab.
The centre is located at the Pisona Group building, covering the third floor and including a library and a well-equipped classroom with computers.
Khun Prab, who employs about 1000 staff in tourism, said that he wanted to drive service quality and understood that language skills were essential.
So he provided space at Pisona free for the project. Teachers from Rajabhat University in Phuket City devote 30 hours to each course and those who improve their skills obtain a certificate.
Khun Jiraporn, who came from Bangkok for the opening, said it was good to see local businesses taking the initiative ahead of the broader approach to labor exchange across Asean in 2015, when people will be able to move more freely from country to country across some specific skill sets.
Khun Prab, with interests across restaurants, entertainment, tours and resorts, has been credited with helping to structure most of Patong's tuk-tuk groups into an organised collective with improving standards and a changing approach to service.
The first group of about 30 students graduated and received certificates yesterday. Courses are now for improvements beyond basic English, with students grouped according to their present skill levels, but other projects are planned.
Resorts in Patong and elsewhere wishing to make inquiries are invited to call Pisona on 076 342695 or 076 342681 for details.
The Network Centre of Language Skill Development in Support of the Tourism Industry has been established by Pisona Group leader Preechavude ''Prab'' Keesin with the involvement of the Department of Skill Development.
The Director of the Department, Jiraporn Kesonrnrujarit, launched the venture yesterday in Patong with Khun Prab.
The centre is located at the Pisona Group building, covering the third floor and including a library and a well-equipped classroom with computers.
Khun Prab, who employs about 1000 staff in tourism, said that he wanted to drive service quality and understood that language skills were essential.
So he provided space at Pisona free for the project. Teachers from Rajabhat University in Phuket City devote 30 hours to each course and those who improve their skills obtain a certificate.
Khun Jiraporn, who came from Bangkok for the opening, said it was good to see local businesses taking the initiative ahead of the broader approach to labor exchange across Asean in 2015, when people will be able to move more freely from country to country across some specific skill sets.
Khun Prab, with interests across restaurants, entertainment, tours and resorts, has been credited with helping to structure most of Patong's tuk-tuk groups into an organised collective with improving standards and a changing approach to service.
The first group of about 30 students graduated and received certificates yesterday. Courses are now for improvements beyond basic English, with students grouped according to their present skill levels, but other projects are planned.
Resorts in Patong and elsewhere wishing to make inquiries are invited to call Pisona on 076 342695 or 076 342681 for details.
