In a landmark move for Goa’s tourism industry, Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has partnered with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Goa, to set up India’s largest hospitality skilling centre. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Goa Chief Minister Shri Pramod Sawant, Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL, and key government officials.

Empowering Youth Through Skill Development

This initiative is designed to equip youth with essential hospitality skills, creating new employment avenues in Goa’s thriving tourism and hospitality sector. The skilling centre will offer specialized training programs and workshops, covering key areas like:

Front Office Operations
Housekeeping Services
Food Production
Food & Beverage Service

To ensure practical industry exposure, the program will also feature internships in corporate hospitality settings, bridging the gap between education and employment.

Leadership Statements

Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO of IHCL, emphasized IHCL’s commitment to Goa’s hospitality landscape, stating:

“Continuing our pioneering leadership in Goa for over five decades, IHCL is dedicated to developing a skilled workforce. This centre, aligned with our ESG+ framework of Paathya, will bridge the employability gap and strengthen Goa’s vibrant tourism industry.”

Goa’s Chief Minister, Shri Pramod Sawant, highlighted the state’s dedication to tourism-led employment growth, saying:

“Goa has long been a hub for tourism, and this initiative by IHCL will create new job opportunities for our youth. This MoU reflects our commitment to building a sustainable tourism ecosystem with India’s leading hospitality company.”

IHCL’s Commitment to Talent Development

Under its Paathya ESG+ framework, IHCL operates 47 skilling centres across India, focusing on empowering youth and enhancing employability. This new initiative in Goa further strengthens IHCL’s efforts to nurture future hospitality professionals, ensuring a skilled and ready workforce for the evolving industry.

With Goa’s tourism sector booming, this partnership marks a significant step in shaping India’s next generation of hospitality professionals.