The International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, has entered into a landmark partnership with Kyoto Culinary Art College and Kyoto Pastry & Bakery Art College, Japan — both operated by the prestigious Taiwa Gakuen Educational Corporation. This collaboration aims to strengthen international culinary education and deepen cultural exchange between India and Japan.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalised in Kyoto during a visit by Mr. Arjun S. Datta, Managing Director & COO of IICA, who met Mr. Mikito Tanaka, Vice President of Taiwa Gakuen Educational Corporation, and Mr. Ikeda from the New Business and Innovation Promotion Office. The discussions focused on creating frameworks for faculty and student exchanges, and joint academic programs that reflect the shared culinary philosophies of both nations.

One of the major initiatives emerging from this partnership is the introduction of an Indian Cuisine Program at Kyoto Culinary Art College and Kyoto Pastry & Bakery Art College. The program will be designed and taught by IICA’s chef faculty, led by Chef Virender S. Datta, Founder & Chairman of IICA, who brings over five decades of global hospitality experience. In return, Kyoto’s faculty will collaborate with IICA to launch a Japanese Cuisine Program in New Delhi, offering Indian students authentic training in Japanese culinary and pastry traditions.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Mikito Tanaka shared, “Taiwa Gakuen Educational Inc. is strengthening its global collaboration in preparation for its 100th anniversary in 2031. The signing of this MoU with IICA, New Delhi, is extremely significant as it will accelerate the exchange of food culture and talent between Kyoto and India. We look forward to further collaboration in the future.”

Chef Virender S. Datta added, “This collaboration represents a milestone in IICA’s journey. Bringing Indian cuisine to Japan and introducing Japanese traditions to India will shape globally competent chefs and foster meaningful cultural exchange.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Arjun S. Datta said, “Our shared vision is to deliver world-class culinary education through cross-cultural learning. This MoU lays the foundation for new opportunities for students and faculty in both countries.”

This landmark partnership not only strengthens IICA’s position as a leader in culinary education but also builds a culinary bridge between India and Japan, blending India’s vibrant flavours with Japan’s precision and artistry, a collaboration that celebrates both tradition and innovation.