McDonald's is providing its employees with an opportunity to learn and grow in their careers with an intensive training programme in hospitality operations.

The University Accredited Programme (UAP), a uniquely intensive training programme in Hospitality Operations, recently honoured 119 graduates as part of McDonald's campaign to develop social environment and career growth among Singaporean workers.

McDonald's employees are provided with prospects to obtain internationally-recognised accreditation from Australia's University of Ballarat. Career advancement and the option to pursue degree and master's programmes in universities across British Commonwealth are being endorsed to pursue lifelong learning.

"At McDonald's, we take the lead to change mindsets in the industry by showcasing that service can offer an honorable, respectable and fulfilling career," said Kenneth Chan, managing director of McDonald's restaurants in Singapore.

UAP was first launched in 2004 and is open to all employees, from crew to those holding managerial positions. It complements McDonald's in-house training curriculum by providing continuous learning opportunities for their employees and being the best employer. So far, McDonald's has invested approximately $600,000 on this programmed, which benefited over 300 employees, including this batch of graduates

"UAP is one of our many initiatives to demonstrate and convince people that a career at McDonald's is built on a strong foundation of opportunity and inclusion," added Ms Eunice Lee, senior director, HR business partner, SEA.

In Singapore, the course is administered by local education provider Guilford School of Hospitality, and recognised by the Singapore ministry of education (MOE).