THE-ICE

CEO update – August 2026

The past few months have demonstrated the strength, reach and growing momentum of THE-ICE global network.

Across our membership, we continue to see institutions investing in quality, building meaningful international relationships and contributing expertise that strengthens our wider community. These developments are important achievements in their own right, while also demonstrating how connection, collaboration and shared learning can help institutions respond effectively in an increasingly complex environment.

The Memorandum of Understanding we recently signed with Thailand’s Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment demonstrates the value of relationships across our network. The connection, facilitated by Dusit Thani College, has created new opportunities for cooperation in quality assurance, international benchmarking, research and professional development.

We also continue to strengthen THE-ICE’s international expertise and engagement. The appointment of Dr Ali Abdallah and Dr Gulbahar Abdallah (Al Rayyan International University College, Qatar) as Auditors of the independent THE-ICE Assessment Panel brings valuable regional knowledge and complementary expertise to our accreditation activities.

Related to this, I am delighted to share we have secured a significant new international agreement that will considerably extend THE-ICE’s accreditation activity and global engagement, and have several other important developments also underway. We look forward to sharing more with our members soon, so please stay tuned.

“Resilience cannot be built in isolation. It is dependent on trusted relationships, shared learning and meaningful global dialogue.”

Looking ahead, THE-ICE 19th International Panel of Experts (IPoE) Forum 2026 will provide an important opportunity to bring these connections to life. In September, members and stakeholders from across our global community will come together in Brig, Switzerland, to exchange ideas, share practice and explore how leadership, innovation and international cooperation can help shape the future of tourism and hospitality education.

These developments demonstrate the value of strong relationships and a connected international community. I thank our members, partners and colleagues for their continued support, engagement and commitment to THE-ICE global network, and look forward to the opportunities ahead.

Last, but by no means least, I am delighted to congratulate Institut Lyfe, Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences and William Angliss Institute on their successful re-accreditation. These achievements recognise each institution’s continued commitment to quality, continuous improvement and excellence in tourism, hospitality and events education.

Dr Craig Thompson
Chief Executive Officer, THE-ICE

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THE-ICE is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Gulbahar Abdallah, Head of Quality Assurance and Academic Partnerships and Assistant Professor at Al Rayyan International University College, Qatar, as a new Auditor of THE-ICE Assessment Panel.

Dr Abdallah brings more than 12 years of experience in higher education, with extensive expertise in quality assurance, accreditation, programme development, academic governance and institutional effectiveness.

In her current role, Dr Abdallah holds senior responsibility for quality assurance frameworks, academic standards, institutional and programme accreditation, academic partnerships and curriculum review. Her experience includes programme approval and validation, periodic review, re-accreditation, learning outcomes, assessment frameworks, regulatory compliance and continuous quality enhancement.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr Abdallah to THE-ICE Assessment Panel. Her extensive experience in quality assurance, programme review and international accreditation will bring valuable expertise and insight to the Panel,” said THE-ICE CEO, Dr Craig Thompson.

“Her knowledge of tourism and hospitality education in the Middle East will further strengthen THE-ICE’s regional expertise and support the continued enhancement and expansion of our activities across this dynamic and growing region.”

Dr Abdallah has led and supported accreditation processes involving THE-ICE, the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands and Qatar’s National Committee for Qualifications and Academic Accreditation. She currently serves as Al Rayyan International University College’s Accreditation Liaison Officer for its institutional accreditation process.

Her appointment builds on an established association with THE-ICE. Dr Abdallah previously served as project leader for THE-ICE accreditation at Stenden University Qatar and has coordinated THE-ICE re-accreditation activities for Tourism and Hospitality programmes. She also participated as a panellist at THE-ICE 17th International Panel of Experts (IPoE) Forum 2024 in Doha, contributing to a discussion on involving all stakeholders in the quality enhancement process.

Dr Abdallah’s quality assurance expertise is underpinned by a strong academic foundation. She holds a PhD in Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management from Leeds Beckett University, a Master of Arts in International Management from the University of Sunderland and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cyprus International University.

Her research includes publications and conference contributions relating to gender equity, ethical leadership, migration, emotional labour and hospitality education. In 2024, she received the Best Paper Award – First Runner-Up at the EuroCHRIE Conference in Doha.

We welcome Dr Abdallah to THE-ICE Assessment Panel and look forward to her valuable contribution to THE-ICE’s mission to recognise, benchmark and promote excellence in tourism, hospitality and events education worldwide.

THE-ICE is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Ali Abdallah, Associate Professor and Programme Leader for Tourism Management and Event Management at Al Rayyan International University College, Qatar, as a new Auditor of THE-ICE Assessment Panel.

Dr Abdallah brings more than 15 years of higher education experience across the United Kingdom and Qatar, with particular expertise in tourism and events education, academic leadership, curriculum development and applied research.

In his current role, Dr Abdallah leads the Tourism Management and Event Management programmes at Al Rayyan International University College, delivered in partnership with the University of Derby. He oversees academic strategy, curriculum development, programme quality, student progression and staff coordination across both disciplines.

His extensive programme development experience includes co-developing a Master of Science in International Hospitality and Tourism Management, with sustainability embedded throughout the curriculum, and leading the development of a Bachelor of Arts in Event Management.

“Dr Abdallah brings a valuable combination of academic leadership, curriculum expertise and applied research in tourism and events education,” said THE-ICE CEO, Dr Craig Thompson.

“His extensive experience in the Middle East, together with his understanding of the region’s academic and industry environments, will strengthen the Panel’s expertise and support THE-ICE as we continue to enhance and expand our activities across this dynamic and growing region.”

Dr Abdallah also brings valuable knowledge of quality assurance and accreditation, including programme monitoring, curriculum mapping, assessment and moderation, academic integrity, periodic review and external validation. He has prepared programme approval and licensing documentation in accordance with United Kingdom quality frameworks and Qatar’s regulatory requirements.

An active researcher, Dr Abdallah has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters and conference papers across sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, Gulf tourism, mega-events, tourism and hospitality education, artificial intelligence and transnational education. He was also a recipient of THE-ICE Research Grant in 2021.

Dr Abdallah holds a PhD from Leeds Beckett University, as well as a Master of Science in Tourism and Events Management and a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Tourism and Hospitality from the University of Sunderland. He also holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

We welcome Dr Abdallah to THE-ICE Assessment Panel and look forward to his valuable contribution to THE-ICE’s mission to recognise, benchmark and promote excellence in tourism, hospitality and events education worldwide.

THE-ICE has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thailand’s Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA), formalising a new strategic partnership to support quality assurance, international benchmarking, and collaboration in tourism, hospitality and events education.

The MoU was signed on 29 June 2026 by Professor Ong-art Naiyapatana, Director of ONESQA, and Dr Craig Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of THE-ICE.

ONESQA is Thailand’s national external quality assessment agency, responsible for supporting quality standards and quality assessment across the Thai education sector. The agreement establishes a mutually supportive framework for cooperation between THE-ICE and ONESQA, including the exchange of international best practice in quality assurance.

Through this new partnership, THE-ICE and ONESQA will explore opportunities for joint accreditation, auditor capacity building, research collaboration and professional development.

The partnership aligns with ONESQA’s mission to enhance the quality of Thai education and support standards that are competitive with international benchmarks, while also recognising Thailand’s strong reputation in tourism, hospitality and culinary arts.

Dr Craig Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of THE-ICE, welcomed the agreement and the opportunities it presents for future collaboration.

“This Memorandum of Understanding with ONESQA represents an important step in strengthening THE-ICE’s engagement with Thailand’s higher education sector and supporting the continued development of international quality assurance in tourism, hospitality and events education in Thailand and the wider Southeast Asian region.”

The partnership was established following an introduction by Dr Atthawet Prougestaporn, Rector of Dusit Thani College, and Mr Simon Lloyd, Dean of the Hospitality Management Program at Dusit Thani College, a Committed to Quality (C2Q) Accredited Member of THE-ICE. Their connection with both organisations helped support the development of the relationship between THE-ICE and ONESQA.

“We are so happy to see this partnership between ONESQA and THE-ICE come to action. It is my pleasure to be part in forging this partnership. I am confident that this collaboration is a significant milestone that will not only elevate the quality of hospitality and tourism higher education in Thailand to international standards but also broaden THE-ICE’s global network,” said Dr Atthawet Prougestaporn.

The collaboration aligns with THE-ICE’s ongoing commitment to working with peer quality assurance bodies, government agencies and education partners to support academic excellence, institutional development and international benchmarking across the global tourism, hospitality and events education sector.

THE-ICE looks forward to working with ONESQA to build a mutually beneficial partnership that advances educational excellence, international collaboration, student mobility and positive outcomes for institutions, students and graduates.

National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism (NKUHT), a valued Committed to Quality (C2Q) Accredited Member of THE-ICE since 2019, has issued THE-ICE Diploma Supplement to graduates for the first time.

The presentation took place during NKUHT’s graduation ceremony on 24 June 2026, held in the university’s 30th anniversary year. It represents an important step in extending the benefits of THE-ICE accreditation to the student learning journey and graduate outcomes.

During the ceremony, NKUHT President Dr Der-Long Fang presented THE-ICE Diploma Supplement to 12 graduate representatives from different levels of study, including doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s and associate degree graduates.

THE-ICE Diploma Supplement recognises and celebrates students graduating from THE-ICE Accredited Programmes. It provides tangible evidence that a graduate has completed an internationally accredited programme, reinforcing recognition of quality and supporting graduates in future study, employment pathways and international mobility.

NKUHT noted that THE-ICE accreditation reflects recognition of the university’s achievements in curriculum design, student learning support, industry connectivity, international development and educational quality.

For graduate Ms Hsin-Wen Chang, from the International Bachelor Program in Tourism Management, receiving THE-ICE Diploma Supplement provided a meaningful affirmation of her learning experience.

“In an increasingly competitive global environment, THE-ICE Diploma Supplement gives me greater confidence that I have studied in an internationally recognised learning environment and that my learning outcomes meet international expectations,” she shared.

Ms Chang also noted that the Diploma Supplement would support her confidence when applying for further study overseas or entering the international workforce.

NKUHT described THE-ICE Diploma Supplement as both an affirmation of graduates’ learning outcomes and a symbol of the international recognition of the quality of education they have received.

Dr Craig Thompson, CEO of THE-ICE, congratulated NKUHT and its graduates, noting:

“We congratulate NKUHT and the first graduates to receive THE-ICE Diploma Supplement. This milestone reflects NKUHT’s continued commitment to quality enhancement, international engagement and the development of graduates equipped for global opportunities.”

The achievement follows another recent recognition for NKUHT, with the university ranked 23rd in the world for Hospitality and Leisure Management in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. This further reflects NKUHT’s continued focus on internationalisation, industry engagement and the development of globally competitive hospitality and tourism graduates.

THE-ICE celebrates this important moment with NKUHT and its graduates as they continue to contribute to tourism, hospitality and events in Taiwan and around the world.

Learn more about THE-ICE Diploma Supplement and how it supports graduates of THE-ICE Accredited Programmes.

Important conversations benefit from the right setting.

In September 2026, global tourism and hospitality education leaders will gather in Brig, Switzerland, for THE-ICE 19th IPoE Forum — hosted by César Ritz Colleges in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

While the Forum will provide opportunities for strategic discussions, international collaboration and future-focused dialogue, the setting itself will play an important role in shaping the experience.

An inspiring setting for global dialogue

Surrounded by alpine landscapes and Switzerland’s internationally recognised hospitality heritage, Brig offers an environment that naturally encourages reflection, collaboration and international exchange.

Located within the canton of Valais, Brig combines mountain scenery, Swiss culture and accessibility with a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the traditions of hospitality and tourism for which Switzerland is globally recognised.

The connection between the region and the legacy of César Ritz Colleges makes Brig a particularly meaningful location for the Forum.

“There is something very fitting about welcoming hospitality educators to Brig. César Ritz was born nearby in Niederwald, in the Valais region, before going on to shape modern luxury hospitality and earn the title ‘king of hoteliers and hotelier to kings’, values that continue to inspire our students today,” said Ms Tanja Florenthal, Director, César Ritz Colleges.

For delegates travelling from across THE-ICE global network and beyond, the location provides more than simply a conference destination — it offers an opportunity to step outside daily routines and engage in meaningful conversations within a setting designed for connection and shared learning.

Hospitality education in a Swiss context

Switzerland has long been associated with excellence in hospitality education, combining strong industry engagement with traditions of quality, innovation and experiential learning.

Hosted by César Ritz Colleges, THE-ICE IPoE Forum 2026 will provide delegates with the opportunity to experience a learning environment shaped by international outlook, hospitality leadership and industry-connected education.

As tourism and hospitality industries continue to evolve globally, institutions increasingly play an important role in preparing graduates who are adaptable, globally minded and capable of navigating rapid industry change. The Swiss approach to hospitality education — grounded in experiential learning, operational awareness and international perspective — continues to influence hospitality education worldwide.

Learning beyond the conference room

Beyond the formal programme, the Forum experience will extend to networking conversations, shared experiences, and opportunities for meaningful international connections.

Whether through discussions between educators and industry leaders, informal conversations among delegates, or moments of reflection in the Swiss Alps, THE-ICE IPoE Forum 2026 aims to create an environment where collaboration and global perspectives can flourish.

For many delegates, some of the most valuable outcomes of international forums come not only from presentations and panel discussions, but from the relationships, partnerships and conversations that continue well beyond the event itself.

According to THE-ICE CEO Dr Craig Thompson, these connections are among the Forum’s most enduring outcomes.

“One of the greatest strengths of the IPoE Forum is its ability to bring together diverse international perspectives in an environment that encourages genuine connection and collaboration. The conversations, partnerships and ideas that emerge from these gatherings continue to shape tourism, hospitality and events education long after the Forum concludes.”

The Brig setting provides a natural environment for these exchanges — combining professional dialogue with a sense of place, hospitality and shared international experience.

Looking ahead to IPoE Forum 2026

THE-ICE IPoE Forum 2026 will bring together global perspectives on the future of tourism and hospitality education while also providing delegates with the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most recognised hospitality education environments.

From strategic discussions and industry insights to international networking and shared experiences in the Swiss Alps, Brig will provide a memorable setting for conversations shaping the future of global TH&E education.

Explore the programme, view speakers and register today.

On behalf of THE-ICE Chair, we are delighted to announce that nominations for Fellow of THE-ICE 2026 are now open.

This distinguished award recognises individuals who have made a significant contribution to the field of tourism, hospitality, events and culinary arts (TH&E) in one of the following categories: 

• Outstanding TH&E Academic
• Outstanding TH&E Academic Industry Professional
• Exceptional contributor to THE-ICE

Representatives of THE-ICE member institutions are invited to nominate individuals whose contributions may be considered worthy of this prestigious designation.

To submit a nomination, please complete the nomination form and return it to accreditation@the-ice.org by 5 June 2026.

All nominations will be presented to THE-ICE College of Fellows for consideration and decision. Successful nominees for the 2026 Fellow of THE-ICE will be conferred at THE-ICE 19th IPoE Forum, to be proudly hosted by César Ritz Colleges from 27– 29 September 2026 in Brig, Switzerland

Please refer to the Frame of Reference document for full details of the nomination and selection process. Please note that nominations may only be submitted by representatives of THE-ICE member institutions.

If you have any questions regarding the nomination and selection process, please contact THE-ICE Operations Manager, Elise Lawrence, at elise@the-ice.org.

View the current Fellows of THE-ICE

THE-ICE is delighted to announce the winners of THE-ICE Global Revenue Management (GRM) Challenge 2026, our global student competition exclusively for students of THE-ICE accredited members.

Now in its sixth year, THE-ICE GRM Challenge brings together students and staff across our global network, providing an opportunity to engage and build international skills and experience.

THE-ICE GRM Challenge 2026 attracted 59 students and 13 staff members representing 8 institutions, who were grouped into international and inter-institutional teams. Together, they competed in an innovative and exciting challenge designed to test and develop their hospitality and tourism revenue management skills.

We congratulate the winning teams of THE-ICE GRM Challenge 2026, who demonstrated significant skill and international collaboration. It is our pleasure to reward their achievements with the following prizes, generously supported by our Business Alliance Partners, Russell Partnership Technology and CoStar Group Academic Engagement:

1^st Place – Team 6

• Khin Sandar Han (Florence), Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand
• Diana Fernandez, FERRANDI Paris, France
• Nirjara Kumar, The University of the South Pacific, Fiji
• Roanna Camille Esguerra, Far Eastern University, Philippines

With thanks to Staff Advisor Mr Antoine Bisson, Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School at Torrens University Australia

All participating students on the team will receive:

• A $1,000 AUD bursary towards study offered by any member of THE-ICE.
• Free registration for the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA), or the Certification in Advanced Hospitality and Tourism Industry Analytics (CAHTA), offered by CoStar Group Academic Engagement
• Free registration for the Hospitality Business Acumen (HBA) Certificate programme, offered by Russell Partnership Technology

2^nd Place – Team 11

• Zalmon Tui, The University of the South Pacific, Fiji
• Napat Bunnag, William Angliss Institute, Australia
• Jerome Koenitzer, EHL Passugg, Switzerland

With thanks to Staff Adviser, Mr Jao Manuel Go, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Philippines.

All participating students on the team will receive:

• Free registration for the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA), or the Certification in Advanced Hospitality and Tourism Industry Analytics (CAHTA), offered by CoStar Group Academic Engagement
• Free registration for the Hospitality Business Acumen (HBA) Certificate programme, offered by Russell Partnership Technology

3^rd Place – Team 4

• Jaskirat Singh, Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand
• Daphnee Dupre de Boulois, FERRANDI Paris, France
• John Wakageni, The University of the South Pacific, Fiji

With thanks to Staff Adviser, Mr Jan Racky Masa, Far Eastern University, Philippines.

All participating students on the team will receive:

• Free registration for the Hospitality Business Acumen (HBA) Certificate programme, offered by Russell Partnership Technology

Russell Partnership Technology has prepared a video explaining the 2026 Challenge results.

Thank you to all the dedicated staff members who made THE-ICE GRM Challenge 2026 possible for the students.

We look forward to launching the next GRM Challenge, set to take place in March 2027. Stay tuned for more details!

View the previous winners of THE-ICE Global Revenue Management Challenges.