Culinary education in Ticino continues to be a cornerstone of the quality of local hospitality and dining. On August 28, 2025, the PalaCinema in Locarno hosted the awards ceremony for the best graduates in the "Food and Services" sector of the 2024-25 academic year, an event that brought together institutions, professional associations, and businesses.
A total of 133 young people successfully completed their training, receiving federal certificates of proficiency or practical training certificates. Twenty-nine of them received special recognition for ranking first, acknowledging their level of excellence in disciplines ranging from culinary to hotel management.
Professions at the centre
Graduates belong to various professional roles: food technicians, standardized gastronomy clerks, restaurant workers, chefs, and kitchen staff, as well as profiles related to hotel communications and management. These skills, in a canton with a strong tourism vocation, are increasingly important for the competitiveness of facilities and the enhancement of the region.
The institutions present
The event, enriched by artistic performances curated by the New Ability Association, featured prominent figures. Among them were Gabriele Beltrami, the new president of Hotel & Gastro Formazione Ticino; Claudio Franscella, Deputy Mayor of Locarno; Sonja Frey, President of HotellerieSuisse Ticino; and Caner Sevil, President of Hotel & Gastro Union. Tatiana Lurati-Grassi, representing the Vocational Training and Cities of Crafts Division, was also present.
Alongside the authorities, representatives of the Trevano Technical Professional Center, as well as the sponsors and supporters who made the initiative possible, were also present. Following the ceremony, an aperitif provided participants and guests with a convivial moment.
The role of Hotel & Gastro Training Ticino
Hotel & Gastro Training Ticino – A non-profit organization established by GastroTicino, HotellerieSuisse Ticino, and Hotel & Gastro Union Ticino, its mission is to coordinate and promote basic and advanced training programs for the entire sector. The cantonal organization is part of the national Hotel & Gastro Formation network, based in Weggis, which plays a key role in the development of professional skills in Switzerland.
A sector that looks forward
The focus on culinary education in Ticino is not just an investment in young people, but a crucial element in maintaining the high reputation of the tourism and hospitality industry. Locarno's recognition underscores how expertise, passion, and professionalism are essential ingredients for building a sustainable future in the hotel and restaurant industry.
