Agreement signup ceremony between Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Vocational Education and Indian Hotels Company Ltd (Taj)

 by Priya Jadhav 

Mumbai 19 June, 2023: Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Vocational Education (SVE) and Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has entered into a groundbreaking agreement to offer a unique three-year Bachelor of Vocational Education in Hotel Management, known as the Golden Threshold Programme. This partnership aims to provide students with an exceptional learning experience combining academic knowledge and practical training in the hospitality industry.

Under the agreement, SVE will oversee the academic aspect of the program, including theory classes and examinations conducted over six semesters in accordance with an approved syllabus. The students will have the opportunity to learn on-the-job at various Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) hotels, following a professionally designed schedule that encompasses all aspects of Hotel Management.

IHCL, a renowned hospitality brand, will play a vital role in guiding, training, mentoring, and monitoring the on-the-job training of the students. Regular formal evaluations will be conducted to ensure the students' progress and development throughout their practical training. IHCL's expertise and industry insights will provide the students with a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations and customer service excellence.

Upon successful completion of the six semesters and corresponding practical training at IHCL hotels, Tata Institute of Social Sciences will award a Bachelor of Vocation in Hotel Management degree (B.Voc). This degree will serve as a testament to the students' competence and readiness to embark on successful careers in the hospitality industry.

To support the students during their educational journey, IHCL will provide a stipend to cover the cost of tuition fees and meet some additional expenses. This financial support demonstrates IHCL's commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Prof. Madhushree Sekher, Dean, School of Vocational Education, at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Vocational Education, expressed excitement about the collaborative program, stating, "We are thrilled to join hands with Indian Hotels Company Ltd to offer the Golden Threshold Programme. This unique curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, allowing students to develop a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. Through this collaboration, we aim to equip our students with the necessary skills and expertise to excel in their careers."

Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, said, “This initiative is in line with IHCL’s ESG + framework of Paathya to build a talent pool for the hospitality industry. We are proud to partner with Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Vocational Education, to create a program that offers practical learning opportunities within our hotels. By working closely with the students, we can ensure that they receive comprehensive training and gain real-world insights into the hospitality industry."

The Agreement Signup Ceremony marks the beginning of an exciting collaboration between Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Vocational Education, and Indian Hotels Company Ltd. This initiative not only aims to develop skilled professionals but also contributes to the growth and excellence of the hospitality sector in India.