19 November 2007 - It was an enjoyable day for 40 students of SMK Penanti as they were given a free workshop on the culinary arts by SEGi College Penang.

SEGi lecturers, Mr. Raj, Mr. Juhelmi and Ms. Atikah took the students an a journey of the world of Culinary Arts, demonstrating and allowing students to experience first hand what it is like to work in the Food & Beverage (F&B) industry.

“It is important for students to have a holistic idea of industries or a certain career pathway for them to know what they are really getting in to should they embark on the programme that leads to it,” said Jeffrey Goh, Principal of SEGi College Penang.

This test drive of the F&B industry truly enlightened the students on what to expect of this particular career pathway. After the tour of the SEGi College Penang campus, students were treated to an exciting flambé demonstration by Mr. Raj.

“The Culinary Arts is a great programme especially for Penangnites, as the island is a hotspot tourist destination. There are many hotels and restaurants that demand qualified and skilled staff to support the demands of tourists and locals. SEGi’s Hotel Management and Tourism diploma programmes are industry driven to meet the needs of the global tourism industry,” shared Goh.

“Although the F&B require discipline and dedication, it is also a rather glamourous and exciting job if you are good at it. Imagine being a head chef of a 5-star restaurant, or travelling the world as your skills is sought after by restaurants worldwide,” enthused Goh. “Those who are looking for more of a thrill can also work as culinary chefs for TV programmes which are growing very popular these days. The possibilities are endless!”

After the excitement of the flambé demonstration, students were given a more serious overview of the different use of kitchen tools with a demonstration on preparing spaghetti and other favourites of the western cuisine.

The demonstrations were a real eye opener to the students. As most of us are used to the simplicity of our home kitchens, seeing a fully equipped kitchen handled by professionals was something new for everyone.

After a long day at SEGi, the students were presented with a Certificate of Attendance of the workshop on culinary arts.

SEGi College Penang offers the Diploma in Hotel Management as well as the Diploma in Tourism Management. The College also offers other diploma and 3+0 degree programmes in the area of Business and Accountancy, Information Technology, Early Childhood Education and Mass Communication.