In the field of hospitality and tourism education, the journey of the School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Manipal University Jaipur (SHTM, MUJ) stands as a testament to dedication to excellence, relevance, and student success. From its inception to its current stature, the institute remains steadfast in its commitment to continuous improvement, recognizing the dynamic nature of the industry it serves.
The challenges encountered along this journey have been diversope and demanding, yet met with resilience and innovation. SHTM, MUJ understands the imperative of adapting its curriculum to align with industry trends, striking a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical training. Robust industry collaborations are sought to enrich students’ learning experiences and ensure their preparedness for global competitiveness.
Navigating logistical hurdles and securing top-tier faculty are ongoing priorities, with attractive packages being essential to recruit and retain talent. The disruptive impact of events like the COVID-19 pandemic underscores theo need for adaptability and resilience, as well as the importance of instilling confidence in students amidst uncertainty.
Securing funding for research, facilities, and scholarships remains crucial to sustaining the institute’s growth and facilitating access to education for deserving candidates. Through strategic planning and meaningful partnerships, SHTM, MUJ continues to overcome these hurdles, steadfast in its mission to nurture the leaders of tomorrow in the field of hospitality and tourism.
Providing Real-world Experience
SHTM effectively tackled its challenges through strategic problem-solving measures. To remain abreast of industry advancements, a dedicated team consistently updated the curriculum, ensuring students were equipped with the most current knowledge. Robust partnerships with industry leaders facilitated practical training, internships, and valuable real-world exposure, bolstering student competencies. Addressing global competitiveness involved optimizing processes and fostering targeted international collaborations.
Efforts to attract top faculty included implementing innovative recruitment strategies and competitive compensation packages. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the institute swiftly pivoted to online learning and support systems, minimizing disruptions to education. Securing funding was achieved through proactive grant applications, fundraising initiatives, and efficient resource management practices.
The institute’s adaptable response to market dynamics, coupled with its unwavering commitment to educational and research excellence, were pivotal in surmounting challenges. These endeavors have effectively prepared students to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality and tourism with confidence and success.
Industry-aligned Curriculum
SHTM upholds a dynamic and relevant curriculum through a comprehensive approach that aligns with industry standards and trends. This encompasses establishing strong partnerships with key industry stakeholders and regularly consulting with the SHTM Board of Studies, composed of industry experts, alumni, current students, and faculty members. Drawing on the extensive industry experience of faculty members, the institute continuously updates course content to incorporate emerging trends, technologies, and best practices.
The faculty engagement in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development programs ensures they remain current with the latest advancements. The curriculum integrates industry internships, guest lectures, and case studies to provide students with practical insights and real-world experiences. Continuous feedback loops involving students, alumni, and industry partners enable ongoing refinement of the curriculum to meet evolving industry needs.
Recommendations regarding curriculum enhancements are forwarded to the Faculty Board and the senate of MUJ Academic Council for final review. Post-examination, outcomes are evaluated through statistical analysis, with generated reports informing curriculum modifications. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability necessary to thrive in the dynamic landscape of the hospitality and tourism industry.
Global Academic Partnerships
SHTM boasts several academic partnerships aimed at enriching students’ educational experience and fostering global perspectives. These partnerships include esteemed institutions such as the International College of Hotel Management in Adelaide, Australia; HTMi Switzerland; and the Academy of Tourism in Antalya, Turkey. Through these collaborations, students gain access to international resources, expertise, and opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
In addition to academic partnerships, SHTM actively collaborates with industry leaders to provide students with valuable hands-on experience and real-world insights. Collaborators such as Clarks Amer Jaipur, Quess Corp. Pvt. Ltd, and GoodHost Spaces offer students opportunities for internships, industry projects, and mentorship programs, enhancing their readiness for the professional world.
SHTM prioritizes student engagement within the local hospitality and tourism industry in Jaipur. Through various collaborations with industry partners in the region, students have the chance to participate in community projects, events, and initiatives, further enriching their learning experiences and expanding their professional networks. These collaborations underscore SHTM’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in the global hospitality and tourism landscape.
Legacy of Service
Professor Dr. Gopalakrishna Prabhu K, serving as the President of Manipal University Jaipur, boasts an extensive tenure of over two decades within the Manipal Group, assuming various academic and leadership roles. In recognition of his scholarly contributions in Biomedical Engineering, he was bestowed with the esteemed “Shri Shyam Lal Saxena Memorial Award” by the National Academy of Medical Sciences in 2007.
Dr. Prabhu actively engages with the professional community as a member of the “Biomedical Engineering Society of India” (BMESI), where he also served as the association’s Secretary from 2002 to 2008. His tenure as Director of MIT witnessed the initiation of numerous student-centric initiatives, including the modernization and enhancement of the MIT campus and infrastructure.
Renowned for his open-door empathetic approach and management style, Dr. Prabhu garners admiration and accolades from colleagues, faculty, and students alike. His contributions extend beyond academia, with the District Administration recognizing his achievements and community service by honoring him with the ‘Udupi District Kannada Rajyostava Award’ in November 2017.
Success Beyond Graduation
SHTM takes great pride in the success stories of its alumni who have made significant strides in the hospitality and tourism industry following their graduation:
- Yashashwi Agarwal
Current Position: Guest Relation Executive at Hyatt Regency Dehradun
Profile: Yashashwi’s exceptional guest relations skills and dedication to delivering outstanding hospitality experiences have propelled her career at Hyatt Regency Dehradun. With a solid foundation in customer service and hotel operations acquired at our institute, she has earned recognition from both guests and colleagues for her commitment to guest satisfaction and meticulous attention to detail.
- Chitransh Paliwal
Current Position: Sales and Marketing Executive at Alila Fort Bishangarh
Profile: Chitransh has emerged as a dynamic professional in the luxury hospitality segment, particularly in sales and marketing. Leveraging strategic insights and innovative marketing techniques learned at our institute, he has played a pivotal role in promoting the unique offerings of Alila Fort Bishangarh. His ability to identify market trends and craft compelling campaigns has significantly contributed to the hotel’s success.
- Aditi Amar
Current Position: Duty Manager at ITC Hotels
Profile: Aditi demonstrates exemplary leadership and managerial skills as Duty Manager at ITC Hotels. Utilizing the comprehensive training in hotel operations and guest services provided by our institute, she excels in overseeing daily operations and ensuring exceptional guest experiences. Her strong communication abilities and meticulous attention to detail have garnered praise within the hospitality industry.
These success stories serve as a testament to the quality education and practical training provided by SHTM, empowering alumni to thrive and excel in diverse roles within the hospitality and tourism sector.
Major Achievements in Hospitality Education
SHTM has garnered prestigious awards and accolades, including being twice honored in the esteemed Limca Book of Records, underscoring its excellence in hospitality and tourism management. Renowned for its transformative learning experience, the institute distinguishes itself in India through its robust integration with industry partners.
Through strategic collaborations with top organizations, SHTM offers unparalleled internships and networking opportunities, providing students with invaluable real-world experiences. The faculty members, equipped with extensive industry insights, deliver a rigorous and updated curriculum that prepares students for the dynamic demands of the field.
State-of-the-art facilities, such as simulation labs and workshops, further enhance students’ practical skills, while exchange programs and a diverse student body foster global perspectives and cultural understanding. Emphasizing leadership, communication, and problem-solving alongside technical proficiency, SHTM adopts a holistic approach to education.
With personalized career services and a focus on innovation, the institute ensures that graduates are well-equipped to excel in the ever-evolving hospitality and tourism sector. This unique blend of factors positions SHTM as a leader in shaping industry-ready, innovative professionals who are poised for success.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders
SHTM envisions a future of hospitality and tourism education characterized by innovation, excellence, and sustainability. The institute aims to lead in cultivating a dynamic learning environment that not only keeps pace with industry trends but also anticipates and shapes them, producing visionary leaders.
Central to this vision is the strengthening of industry partnerships to offer cutting-edge experiences and deepen collaborations with global brands and sustainable organizations. Sustainability is a key focus, with dedicated courses on eco-friendly practices aimed at instilling stewardship values in students.
To promote hands-on learning and foster innovative thinking, SHTM invests in state-of-the-art facilities and technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Research and thought leadership are integral components of the institute’s approach, with plans for impactful projects and participation in international conferences.
SHTM aims to empower graduates as ethical leaders who drive positive change in the global hospitality sector and contribute to sustainable community development worldwide. Through these concerted efforts, the institute positions itself as a beacon of excellence and innovation in hospitality and tourism education.
