Gateway to Global Hospitality: Nepali Students to Intern in Japan’s Thriving Tourism Sector

25th July 2025, Kathmandu

Global Academy of Tourism and Hospitality Education (GATE) in Kathmandu and Tono City, Japan, is opening up unparalleled opportunities for Nepali students in the global tourism and hospitality industry.

Gateway to Global Hospitality Nepali Students

This historic collaboration, announced on 8 Shrawan in Kathmandu, marks a significant step towards internationalizing human resource development and fostering rich cultural exchange between Nepal and Japan.

The agreement paves the way for Nepali students enrolled at GATE College to access invaluable internship opportunities in Tono City, Japan. This initiative is specifically designed to provide hands-on experience in Japan’s renowned hospitality sector, equipping future professionals with the practical skills and global perspectives essential for success.

Bridging Cultures, Building Futures: The Vision Behind the Partnership

This pioneering partnership extends beyond mere internships; it’s a strategic alliance aimed at promoting international exchange and multicultural coexistence. For Nepal, it represents a crucial avenue for developing highly skilled human resources, addressing the growing demands of its tourism industry. For Japan, particularly regions like Tono City facing challenges such as a declining birthrate, an aging population, and labor shortages, this collaboration is a vital step towards welcoming diverse foreign talent and enriching its communities.

Mayor Kazuhiro Tada of Tono City expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, highlighting its importance for the internationalization of his city. “This partnership is highly meaningful,” Mayor Tada remarked, emphasizing that it will provide GATE College students with practical experience while offering Tono new perspectives and cultural enrichment. He underscored the city’s commitment to supporting this vision, acknowledging it as a “big step towards accepting global talent.”

Khhem Lakai, CEO of GATE College, echoed this sentiment, describing the agreement as the “beginning of a shared dream between Nepal and Japan.” With 19 years of experience in shaping students’ aspirations through collaborations with institutions like EHL Switzerland, Kathmandu University, and TAFE Australia, Lakai views this partnership as a “family-building opportunity” that will leave a lasting impact on students’ transformative experiences.

Suki Suzuki, CEO of Tono Co., Ltd., further emphasized the agreement’s role in regional tourism development. Suzuki highlighted the critical need for globally-minded human resources and multicultural understanding to revitalize domestic tourism in rural areas. “Interns with international perspectives not only improve service quality while working and learning in local communities,” Suzuki stated, “but also contribute directly to building a welcoming system for foreign tourists.” This initiative is envisioned as a crucial bridge between Nepal and Tono, fostering a sustainable tourism sector.

Unlocking Opportunities: Benefits for Nepali Hospitality Students

For Nepali students, this partnership translates into a multitude of benefits:

Real-World Experience: Gaining practical, hands-on experience in Japan’s highly regarded hospitality industry, from accommodation to tourism services.

Skill Development: Enhancing a diverse range of skills, including customer service, operational management, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving in a dynamic international environment.

Global Networking: Building invaluable connections with industry professionals, mentors, and peers in Japan, expanding their professional network.

Cultural Immersion: Deepening their understanding of Japanese culture, work ethics, and innovative approaches to hospitality, providing a unique global perspective.

Enhanced Employability: A prestigious international internship on their resume significantly boosts their competitiveness in the global job market.

Contribution to Local Development: Playing a direct role in supporting the revitalization of rural Japanese communities through their skills and fresh perspectives.

The partnership between GATE College and Tono City, Japan, represents a forward-thinking approach to global education and human resource development. It promises to empower a new generation of Nepalese hospitality professionals, while simultaneously contributing to the vibrant cultural exchange and economic growth of both nations. As the first cohort of GATE College students prepares for this transformative journey, the future of Nepalese and Japanese tourism looks brighter than ever.

For more: Gateway to Global Hospitality