Belize launches national hospitality training institute

The Belize Tourism Board and St. John’s College have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the Elevate Training Institute. Located at Stochl Hall in Belize City, this national hospitality training center will provide practical instruction in culinary arts, hospitality management, customer service, front desk operations, and tour guiding.

The project, funded by the Belize Tourism Board at an estimated cost of $750,000, aims to revitalize the historic Stochl Hall building, which has been closed since 2011. Training will be conducted by international instructors alongside Belizean professionals certified through a train the trainer program.

Graduates are expected to earn internationally recognized certifications through partners such as the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute and the American Culinary Federation. Director of Tourism Evan Tillett stated that the institute provides a permanent brick and mortar presence to continue developing the tourism sector.