DY Patil University’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Studies in Navi Mumbai and Travel Agents’ Association of India (TAAI) have signed a three-year MoU, to enhance the academia and industry partnership for the post-graduation degree, M.Sc in Hospitality and Tourism Studies. Vandana Mishra Chaturvedi, director, DY Patil School of Hospitality and Tourism Studies, signed the MoU with TAAI, which was represented by its Tourism Council chairman and honorary treasurer, Jay Bhatia.
DY Patil University was established in 2002 with a vision to provide quality education in all spheres of high learning and health services in India. TAAI supports the institute in designing the M.Sc curriculum so as to make it more industry relevant. Both, the school and TAAI will collaboratively work towards effective development and delivery of this study programme (a two-year course) being offered to its students.
Chaturvedi, in her address, acknowledged the efforts of TAAI Western Region’s chairman, Sampat Damani as instrumental in getting the MoU signed.
Bhatia said, “With the recent developments in the transportation and communication, travelling, both domestically and internationally has become very easy. Whether your purpose of travel is business, adventure or just a vacation, a large segment of personnel belonging to the travel, tourism and hospitality industry are there to make your experience trouble free.”
TAAI considers this good opportunity to be associated with this programme, so as to ensure that this degree programme is not just theory, but also industry relevant. TAAI will ensure internships and placements suitable for all students, conducting of workshops and training programmes, facilitate the students with guest lectures from the mentors and experienced persons of the industry.
Damani commented, “Patience, flexibility and excellent interpersonal skills have to be developed by the students. Cultural sensitivity and awareness are critical, as tourism professionals deal with different countries and cultures.”
Chaturvedi added, “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to have the support of such a renowned association like TAAI. This will give them excellent exposure to the world of travel, tourism and hospitality.”
Jay Bhatia shall be representing TAAI as an Advisory Board Member of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Studies at DYPU.
