Active Learning in Action: Purchasing and Cost Control Beyond the Classroom

For students of hospitality and tourism, the best lessons often come not from textbooks, but from the bustle of hotel kitchens, storerooms, and front desks. To bring this real-world dimension into the classroom, the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management partnered with The Prestige Hotel Penang, offering students the chance to experience how purchasing and cost control truly work in the industry.

The collaboration featured a specially designed workshop at The Prestige Hotel Penang, where students were immersed in the hotel’s cost control system. From procurement to receiving and inventory management, they gained first-hand exposure to the processes that keep a hotel running smoothly behind the scenes. Instead of simply observing, students rolled up their sleeves and actively participated in daily operational tasks, learning how every detail matters in managing efficiency and profitability.

Guided by The Prestige Hotel’s dedicated team, students received mentoring that went beyond technical skills — it gave them a glimpse into the professionalism, discipline, and problem-solving mindset expected in the hospitality industry. The programme culminated with a presentation of their findings and reflections, evaluated by Chef Yusri Tan and Ms Meena from Human Resources, who offered valuable feedback and encouragement.

This collaboration not only bridged academic theory with professional practice but also demonstrated the power of learning through industry engagement. It reflects SEGi College Penang’s commitment to shaping graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also confident, adaptable, and industry-ready.

Importantly, the initiative also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – by integrating industry-based, practical learning into academic programmes.

  • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by equipping students with employability skills that prepare them for meaningful careers in hospitality.

  • SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – by highlighting the importance of collaboration between academia and industry to achieve shared success.

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