Sun Siyam Iru Veli welcomed a delegation of hospitality students and professors from the University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy, on January 11, 2026, as part of a sustainability and corporate social responsibility learning programme.
The visiting group comprised 20 participants, including hospitality students and academic staff specialising in tourism and sustainability, bringing an international academic perspective to the resort’s ongoing environmental and CSR initiatives. One such activity to be highlighted was the resort’s Food Waste Awareness Campaign, an initiative designed to promote responsible resort operations, reduce food waste, and provide future hospitality professionals with practical, real-world sustainability knowledge.
As part of the visit, the delegation participated in a dedicated sustainability session led by Chaminda Upul Kumara, Group Sustainability Manager at Sun Siyam Resorts, which focused on real-world applications of responsible practices within the hospitality industry. This was followed by a presentation by Athif Ibrahim, Training and Quality Assurance Manager, who shared insights into Maldivian hospitality, the heritage of Sun Siyam Resorts, and the group’s long-term vision for sustainability and community engagement.
Participants also took part in a guided tour of Iru Veli, including a visit to an Ocean Villa with Pool, providing first-hand exposure to the resort’s facilities, service standards, and operational approach to balancing exceptional guest experiences with environmental responsibility.
“It was inspiring to engage with the students and professors on the importance of sustainability and food waste reduction, while also sharing our rich culture, heritage, and hospitality, and how Sun Siyam Resorts continues to keep the essence of the Maldivian Spirit alive,” said Athif Ibrahim, Training and Quality Assurance Manager. “Their enthusiasm and curiosity make initiatives like this truly impactful.”
Claudio Melli, Professor of Tourism Geography at The University of Milano-Bicocca, added, “We are grateful for the opportunity to learn about sustainable practices and explore the resort. The sessions and tour provided us with invaluable insights into responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.”
Through initiatives such as this, Sun Siyam Iru Veli continues to advance its commitment to corporate social responsibility by supporting education, sustainability, and meaningful engagement with the next generation of hospitality professionals. For more information and to book your island getaway, please visit Sun Siyam Iru Veli Offers page or follow the resort on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
