Sun Siyam Iru Veli hosts Italian academic delegation

PARTNER CONTENT 

 

Luxury Maldivian resort Sun Siyam Iru Veli recently hosted a delegation of hospitality students and academic staff from Italy’s University of Milano-Bicocca as part of an educational visit exploring responsible tourism and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

 

The visit, held on 11 January 2026, brought together 20 participants for a tailored programme combining talks and hands-on activities designed to showcase real-world hospitality practices and sustainability  initiatives implemented across Sun Siyam Iru Veli.

 

Chaminda Upul Kumara, the resort’s Group Sustainability Manager, led a session outlining how responsible practices are embedded into daily operations, highlighting Iru Veli’s Food Waste Awareness Campaign, which has been implemented across its dining outlets. Training and Quality Assurance Manager Athif Ibrahim followed with a presentation on the heritage of the Sun Siyam brand, detailing its long-term commitment to community engagement and environmental management.

 

RELATED:

Sun Siyam Iru Veli named ’best resort’ at hotel design awards

Maldives’ Sun Siyam resort reveals festive programme

Sun Siyam Resorts sets new world record

 

The programme concluded with a guided resort tour, including visits to Ocean Villa Suites, offering participants first-hand insight into Iru Veli’s facilities and service standards.

 

Reflecting on the visit, Ibrahim said: “It was inspiring to engage with the students and professors on the importance of food waste reduction, while also sharing our culture, heritage and hospitality, and how Sun Siyam Resorts continues to keep the essence of the Maldivian spirit alive.”

 

The hospitality group is also emphasising environmental initiatives across its six-property-strong portfolio. At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, guests can now join a conservation snorkelling experience led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, giving swimmers a chance to explore the reef while contributing valuable data on coral and fish populations. 

 

For more information, visit sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-iru-veli