Four people have secured jobs after completing a restaurant server programme designed to help participants gain entry level employment in the hospitality industry.

Take Five Ltd presented the training academy in partnership with Government’s Department of Workforce Development, and made the offers of employment at the completion of the three-week academic and practical training programme.

In total, 12 people received an international certificate as a restaurant server from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute and a certificate of completion from Take Five. The names of the remaining participants in the programme were forwarded to other hotels and restaurants with good recommendations for sustainable employment opportunities, a statement said.

Four senior school students participated in the programme with a view to securing summer employment in the hospitality industry, according to the statement.

Topics covered by the initiative included how to set tables, carry multiple plates, place orders, mix beverages, and identify exotic foods. Participants also learnt about food allergies and dietary needs, wines and spirits, as well as how to make a perfect cup coffee.

The initiative was launched to help prepare Bermudians for current and future labour needs within the hospitality industry, the statement said.

Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Cultural Affairs and Sports, said: “This is a wonderful day for our graduates. It’s no secret that within the next few years two prestigious hotel chains will be opening their doors in Bermuda. This Government and all our relevant stakeholders have an obligation to ensure that local talent interested in careers within the hospitality industry are equipped with the skills needed to attract and retain gainful employment. I believe that more initiatives like this will foster the development of Bermudians to lessen the knowledge gap of local talent within the hospitality industry.”