A Qualified Learning Facilitator from EHL Switzerland, Mr. Priyadarshan Lakhawat is currently serving as the Principal at the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition, Jaipur. Mr. Lakhawat is a two-time National award winner for the ‘Best Teacher in Hospitality Education’ from the Ministry of Tourism besides numerous other accolades including ‘Best Employee Award’ at Oberoi Hotels and ‘Indian Hospitality Educators Award.’ With a total experience of 24 years, he is a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) from AHLA, USA. 

IHM Jaipur

What are the key factors that keep you connected with the education sector?

“A passion for teaching and learning always”

The key factors that keep me connected with the education sector are a sense of giving back to society and contributing to nation-building through educating youth. Also, education provides a chance for continuous learning and the development of self. 

How would you describe your leadership style?

“Inclusiveness and shared growth”

I describe my leadership style as synergizing the personal goals of individuals with organizational goals. I always focus on communicating the objectives of the institute and empowering my team members in their respective areas to make decisions and take ownership.

What can an inbound student gain from studying here in your institute?

“A dynamic vision for professional development”

A vibrant culture, innovative decision-making, an understanding of a huge market with demographic advantages, and a first-hand experience of Indian ethos and its implementation are central philosophies in our hospitality education system. We under the Ministry of Tourism, GoI and the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology are proficient in promoting the tourism and hospitality industry of India. We aid in transforming the youth into professional hospitality graduates every year to serve the ever-growing dynamic demands of the industry. 

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What do you think should be the Institute’s top priority over the next 10 years?

“Advancing research facilities and approaches for student growth”

Institute’s top priority is the holistic development of students, preparing them for the skill-set requirements of the future, and developing focus on improved and effective usage of technology. Also, diversification of placement opportunities to include more of retail and other sectors besides the hospitality industry are currently our core focus. IHM Jaipur from the coming academic session is starting a Postgraduate program in Hospitality Management as well. Institute aims to focus more on developing a research environment and to come up with a research journal of its own. Better industry-academia interface is also a part of the institute’s future goals especially after normalizing the current pandemic situation.

What do you see as the Institute’s greatest strengths?

“Large scale facilities and sound learning environment”

Spread in 3.5 acres of land, it boasts all the facilities of a catering institute. In keeping with the current situation, the Institute is already practicing the norms prescribed by the government for COVID-19. Institute has a modern infrastructure including food production labs, bakery and patisserie lab, training restaurants, Front office lab, housekeeping lab and model guest rooms. Along with, a large library, auditorium, conference room, Cafeteria and hostel facility for boys and girls are present. Its location in the heart of Jaipur with the presence of major hospitality brands makes the institute a perfect choice for potential growth in the Hospitality field. Also, we possess motivated and dedicated faculty members, a strong alumni base, students from diverse backgrounds creating a vibrant learning environment always. 

Any suggestions you would like to give to the current youth?

“Be passionate and unique in your approaches”

Sustain your passion and develop perseverance. Inculcate niche abilities in your work to make it distinct and unique. Believe in yourself and never give up on hope. Remember, success is bound to hard work and dedication. 

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Any insights of IHM, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition, Jaipur?

“Hosting diverse hospitality courses ensuring quality”

Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition (formerly known as Food Craft Institute) was established in 1976. The Institute was upgraded to the present status on 1st April 1989. At present, this is one of the premier institutes at the national level imparting hospitality training. The city Jaipur where the institute is located is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and nestles comfortably in the golden triangle. 

Institute’s flagship course is a B.Sc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration course after 10+2 for which admission is through a common JEE exam. Besides, various trade diplomas in different streams related to hospitality are on offer. 

What are the opportunities available for the growth of students in your institute?

“Training events and industrial integrations”

Institute aims to impart quality hospitality education and training to prepare globally competent professionals. Not only the academic inputs as part of the curriculum, but the institute also focuses on holistic development of students by providing them various opportunities for growth such as Umang - Sports and cultural fest, guest lectures by industry experts, food festivals, college magazines, field trips, a celebration of major festivals, etc. Institute has a dedicated training and placement cell to liaison with industry. The consistent high placement record of the students is testimony to the quality of academic inputs, holistic growth of students and confidence of industry in our product.