Udupi: The Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), Manipal, celebrated a significant milestone with the inauguration of its Centre of Excellence for skill training on May 15.
The Centre was inaugurated by Rajan Bahadur, CEO of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC). In his speech, he emphasized the critical role of institutions like WGSHA in shaping the future of hospitality. He praised WGSHA’s contributions and expressed pride in partnering with them. This collaboration between THSC, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), and WGSHA aims to elevate skill standards in the hospitality sector.
“We are at a crucial juncture in the hospitality industry, where the need for skilled professionals is rapidly increasing,” said Bahadur. “Institutions like WGSHA play a pivotal role in meeting this demand by providing high-quality education and practical training. We are proud to partner with WGSHA and recognise them as a Centre of Excellence. This initiative will not only enhance the skill set of our workforce but also create numerous employment opportunities, driving growth and innovation in the hospitality sector. Together, with the support of THSC and NSDC, we are committed to setting new benchmarks in hospitality education and training.”
Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, reflected on the legacy of skill development initiated by the late Dr T M A Pai in 1950. He thanked THSC and NSDC for recognizing WGSHA as a Centre of Excellence, reaffirming their commitment to empowering individuals and enhancing livelihoods.
Chef K Thirugnanasambantham also spoke, celebrating the accreditation of WGSHA by THSC and NSDC as a significant achievement. He highlighted the potential of this recognition in creating employment opportunities for the youth in Karnataka’s hospitality sector.
The Centre of Excellence offers a comprehensive curriculum with at least six months of classroom and practical sessions, followed by a six-month internship. During the internship, students will receive hands-on training in various hotel operations. Successful candidates will receive a joint certificate from THSC and WGSHA, validating their proficiency in hospitality skills.
This launch comes at a crucial time, as the demand for skilled professionals in India’s travel and tourism sector is expected to rise. Projections indicate a need for 19.4 million new jobs by 2033, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4%. Initiatives like the one undertaken by WGSHA and its partners are vital in addressing this skill gap.
The Centre of Excellence for Skill Training at WGSHA stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring hospitality professionals, offering them a pathway to a rewarding and fulfilling career in the industry.
The event was marked by the presence of esteemed guests, highlighting the importance of skill development in the hospitality industry.
