Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages has signed a strategic partnership memorandum of understanding (MOU) with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) to expand internship and employment opportunities for students and strengthen collaboration between academia and the international hospitality industry.
The agreement was signed by Wenzao President Chuang Hwei-Ling and Robbert Manussen, Taiwan Area General Manager of IHG. Under the renewed partnership, the two sides will collaborate on student internship programs, co-teaching initiatives involving industry professionals, talent development camps, training exchanges, and academic activities. The cooperation aims to integrate academic and industry resources to enhance students’ practical skills and career readiness.
Chuang said Wenzao has embraced internationalization as a core development strategy since its founding in 1966. The university is committed to cultivating three key competencies among students: a passion for life, effective communication skills, and service-oriented leadership.
“In addition to professional expertise and language proficiency, we hope students will develop a strong spirit of service and cross-cultural understanding,” Chuang said. “By strengthening ties with industry partners, Wenzao seeks to help students gain practical experience and improve their competitiveness in the global job market.”
Manussen noted that IHG operates more than 7,000 hotels worldwide, providing a wide range of international career opportunities. He said that while professional knowledge and technical skills remain important in the hospitality sector, employers increasingly value service-minded attitudes, language proficiency, and cross-cultural communication abilities.
“We look forward to working with Wenzao to cultivate talent that meets the evolving needs of the international service industry,” he said.
Wenzao and IHG first established a partnership in 2021 and have maintained close cooperation since then. University officials said the signing of the new MOU reflects a deeper commitment by both parties to expand collaboration and create a more comprehensive framework for hospitality talent development and career placement.
The partnership is expected to strengthen pathways linking education and employment while providing students with greater opportunities to pursue international careers in the hospitality sector.
