SP Brewery trains Mapex students

SP Brewery has delivered a Responsible Service of Alcohol [RSA] training program to 15 tourism and hospitality students from the Mapex Training Institute.

The training, which was held on Friday, June 19, at the SP Brewery head office in Port Moresby, equipped the students with essential skills to promote safe and responsible alcohol service.

The initiative forms part of the brewery's ongoing commitment to supporting responsible alcohol practices across Papua New Guinea's hospitality industry and fostering professionalism.

The RSA program focuses on key principles including customer safety, recognizing and managing intoxication, and understanding the legal and ethical responsibilities of serving alcohol.

SP Brewery managing director Ed Weggemans, who welcomed the students, said the training was important in preparing them for future careers in tourism and hospitality.

"While working in your respective areas, you will encounter many of our customers," Weggemans said. "They expect to be served by trained and knowledgeable hospitality professionals who understand the importance of responsible alcohol service."

During the session, brewery staff delivered presentations covering company history, product portfolios, the effects of alcohol consumption, and workplace safety procedures.

The students also participated in practical activities, including responsible beer service, where they gained hands-on experience by serving SP Brewery staff.

Additionally, the group attended a safety briefing led by SP Brewery safety manager Geraldine Makui before taking a guided tour of the brewery to view the production processes.

Mapex Training Institute principal Vipin Vincent commended the partnership as it will have a positive impact on the development of the country's hospitality workforce.

"This partnership with SP Brewery goes beyond training," Vincent said. "It is about shaping responsible hospitality leaders for Papua New Guinea."

He added that students leave the training not only with a certificate, but with the confidence and ethical foundation required to protect customers and uphold the law.