SMU and Genting Singapore (GENS), which runs Resorts World Sentosa, have announced that they will partner to offer a specially designed programme. The programme will enable students to acquire knowledge and insights into the integrated resort (IR) sector and groom talents for the future of the tourism and hospitality industry. At the same time, it will promote cultural exchange between students from Singapore and Japan. The programme is made possible through a S$0.5 million gift from GENS to SMU. Scheduled to take place between September and November 2014, the programme will be taught by SMU faculty members, and mentors and coaches from GENS and Resorts World Singapore. The programme will be conducted in English, and will include site visits and immersion activities; students from Singapore and Japan will also work together on group projects. Students will learn about IR management, including operations, sales and management, marketing, talent management and customer experience. The programme targets 2nd and 3rd year students from SMU and those from its partner universities (including Kyushu University, Keio University, Hitotsubashi University, Meiji University, Rikkyo University, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University and Waseda University) who have been accepted into SMU’s student exchange programme. The programme is expected to take in 30 students in its first cohort.