Singapore's Hospitality Industry Expands Recruitment Horizons to Address Workforce Shortages

Singapore's Hospitality Industry Expands Recruitment Horizons to Address Workforce Shortages

By Author

Published on August 20, 2023

Singapore's hospitality industry, facing workforce shortages, is diversifying its recruitment sources by allowing Indian cooks to be hired. Traditionally, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan have been the main sources of work permit holders for Singapore's services and manufacturing sectors. However, to address the labor shortage, the Ministry of Manpower has introduced Indian cooks to the list of eligible hires. This decision aims to widen the talent pool and cater to the needs of the hospitality sector.

The move, effective from September 1, allows businesses to apply for work permit holders from Non-Traditional Sources (NTS) countries, including Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Indian cooks will now be evaluated alongside housekeepers and porters by a panel of experts in Indian cuisine.

S Mahenthiran, Chief Executive of Catering Solutions and Honorary Secretary of the Indian Restaurants Association (Singapore), praised this move for its potential to empower Indian restaurants in offering authentic cuisine and preserving cultural heritage.

Margaret Heng, Executive Director of the Singapore Hotel Association, emphasized the impact of workforce shortages on the hospitality sector, which is vital for Singapore's reputation as a preferred travel destination.

This step aligns with Singapore's broader strategy of addressing labor shortages in various sectors and maintaining its appeal as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions, and tourism.

Image Source: Pexels


IHM Ranchi Welcomes New B.Sc. H&HA Batch with Orientation Programme

IHM Ranchi Welcomes New B.Sc. H&HA Batch with Orientation Programme

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 31, 2026

The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Ranchi welcomed its new B.Sc. in Hospitality & Hotel Administration (H&HA) 2026–27 batch with its Orientation Programme, Anusthapan, introducing students to the institute's academic environment, training approach, and career opportunities in the hospitality industry.

Affiliated with the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and functioning under the Department of Tourism, Government of Jharkhand, the programme was organised to familiarise students with the institute's academic framework, industry-oriented training, institutional guidelines, and placement process.

The event was attended by Ms. Anjali Yadav, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher & Technical Education, Government of Jharkhand, and Controller of Examinations, JCECEB, as the Chief Guest, while Mr. Yogesh Kumar, General Manager, Ramada by Wyndham, Ranchi, joined as the Guest of Honour.

The programme began with a tree plantation drive by the dignitaries, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony. Students welcomed the guests with a Ganesh Vandana and a Jhumar folk dance, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Jharkhand. The dignitaries were later felicitated by the institute's Principal.

During the ceremony, Mr. Sarvesh Sinha, the highest-ranking student among the newly admitted batch, was honoured with a certificate by the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honour for his outstanding performance in the NCHM JEE Entrance Examination.

Addressing the students, Ms. Anjali Yadav said that joining IHM Ranchi marks the beginning of an important professional journey. She highlighted the institute's focus on quality hospitality education and encouraged students to continuously upgrade their skills by embracing emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. She also stressed the importance of industrial internships, communication skills, additional language proficiency, certification programmes, and lifelong learning in building successful careers. She further encouraged students from across the country to explore and promote Jharkhand's tribal heritage, traditional cuisine, GI-tagged products, and cultural diversity.

In his address, Mr. Yogesh Kumar, General Manager, Ramada by Wyndham, Ranchi, spoke about the vast opportunities available in the hospitality industry for disciplined and committed professionals. Sharing insights from his own career journey, he urged students to stay focused, embrace teamwork, and view challenges as opportunities for growth. He also invited students to visit Ramada by Wyndham, Ranchi, to gain first-hand exposure to hotel operations.

Welcoming the gathering with the traditional greeting "Johar," Dr. Bhupesh Kumar, Principal, IHM Ranchi, described the orientation programme as the beginning of a new academic and professional chapter for the students. He encouraged them to pursue excellence through discipline, integrity, dedication, and continuous learning.

Dr. Kumar noted that IHM Ranchi has established itself among the country's leading government hotel management institutes through quality education, modern training facilities, strong industry partnerships, and consistent placement performance. He also acknowledged the continued support of the Department of Tourism, Government of Jharkhand, in the institute's growth and development.

As part of the orientation, students received detailed information about the institute's academic structure, departments, laboratories, library, hostel facilities, industrial training, internship programme, examination system, and placement process. They were also introduced to the Anti-Ragging Committee, Discipline Committee, Internal Complaints Committee, Student Welfare Cell, and other student support systems.

The programme concluded with an interactive session, followed by a campus tour that familiarised the new students with the institute's classrooms, laboratories, recreational spaces, and other facilities. Faculty members, staff, senior students, and the newly admitted batch participated in the event.


DPGU School for Hospitality and Tourism Partners with Singapore's Nanyang Institute of Management

DPGU School for Hospitality and Tourism Partners with Singapore's Nanyang Institute of Management

By Hariharan U

Published on July 14, 2026

Dnyaan Prasad Global University (DPGU) School for Hospitality and Tourism, under the Dr. D. Y. Patil Unitech Society, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore's Nanyang Institute of Management (NIM) to strengthen academic collaboration and expand international learning opportunities for students and faculty.

The agreement was signed under the leadership of Dr. Pradyuman Rathore, Director, DPGU School for Hospitality and Tourism, along with representatives from Nanyang Institute of Management, including Mr. Khoo Raymond, Vice President (SRA), Ms. Tanny, Deputy Director – Student Recruitment & Admissions, and Mr. Harsh Pagaria, Assistant Country Manager – India (Sales & Marketing).

The partnership aims to foster cross-border collaboration through student and faculty exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, and the sharing of academic resources, teaching methodologies, and best practices. The collaboration is designed to provide hospitality and tourism students with broader international exposure while encouraging knowledge exchange between the two institutions.

Commenting on the partnership, Hon. Dr. Somnath P. Patil, Pro-Chancellor of Dnyaan Prasad Global University, said the collaboration reflects the university's commitment to preparing students for a global hospitality industry by creating opportunities for international learning, cultural exchange, and academic excellence. He noted that the initiative would help equip students with global perspectives, industry exposure, and cross-cultural competencies.

Dr. Rohini S. Patil, Chief Operating Officer, said the agreement marks an important milestone in the university's vision of delivering globally relevant education. She added that collaborative research, faculty engagement, and international student exchanges would enrich the academic experience while preparing graduates for an increasingly interconnected hospitality industry.

The MoU has been signed for an initial period of five years, during which both institutions will gradually introduce collaborative programmes across academics, research, and student mobility.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr. Khoo Raymond, Vice President (SRA), Nanyang Institute of Management, Singapore, said the partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to developing globally competent hospitality professionals through knowledge exchange, innovation, and international learning experiences. He expressed confidence that the collaboration would create long-term value for both students and faculty.

The partnership further strengthens DPGU School for Hospitality and Tourism's growing network of international collaborations, supporting its objective of preparing graduates with practical global exposure alongside industry-focused education. By connecting students with diverse academic environments and hospitality practices, the institution aims to develop professionals equipped to succeed in an increasingly global hospitality and tourism sector


ONE Atmosphere Targets 7,500 Keys with ₹500 Crore Expansion Plan

ONE Atmosphere Targets 7,500 Keys with ₹500 Crore Expansion Plan

By Hariharan U

Published on June 26, 2026

ONE Atmosphere has unveiled plans to invest ₹500 crore towards the expansion of its luxury serviced apartment business, targeting approximately 7,500 keys across India and select international markets over the next five years.

The move marks the next phase of growth for the premium aparthotel brand, which combines the comfort and space of a residential apartment with the services and operational standards of a hotel. Positioned around its "LIVE THE ONE" philosophy, the brand aims to cater to evolving traveller preferences that increasingly favour longer stays, greater flexibility, and home-like living environments.

Designed to bridge the gap between traditional hotels and residential accommodation, ONE Atmosphere offers fully furnished apartments equipped with kitchens, living areas, dedicated workspaces, and daily hotel services. Guests also benefit from amenities such as breakfast, housekeeping, concierge support, and professional hospitality services throughout their stay.

The expansion comes amid growing demand for extended-stay accommodation. India's extended-stay hospitality sector was valued at more than USD 1.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate exceeding 15 percent through 2030, driven by demand from business travellers, relocating professionals, expatriates, and families seeking larger accommodation options.

Across its portfolio, ONE Atmosphere plans to offer a mix of hospitality facilities including all-day dining venues, coffee bars, coworking spaces, wellness centres, conference rooms, terrace lounges, and banqueting facilities. The brand will continue to operate through an asset-light model, partnering with developers and property owners through management and lease agreements.

Commenting on the expansion plans, Sandeep Ahuja, Managing Director of ONE Atmosphere, said the hospitality market is witnessing a clear shift towards experiences that combine hotel-level services with the comfort and functionality of residential living. He noted that the investment will enable the brand to expand into new markets while maintaining its guest-centric approach.

The company expects approximately 60 percent of its inventory demand to come from corporate partnerships and bulk room-night agreements, supported by professionals relocating for work assignments and expatriates requiring longer-term accommodation. Average stay durations are projected to exceed five nights, while shorter-stay demand is also expected to increase.

The brand's first property, ONE Atmosphere Suites at Corner Walk in Gurgaon, developed in partnership with M3M India, is scheduled to open in September 2026. The project will serve as the flagship for the company's future expansion strategy.

ONE Atmosphere is the fourth hospitality brand under Atmosphere Core, a hospitality group known for its portfolio of luxury resorts in the Maldives. While Atmosphere Living focuses on branded residences and hospitality-backed real estate, ONE Atmosphere has been developed as a dedicated hospitality platform focused on luxury serviced apartments.

The company's domestic expansion pipeline includes Gurgaon, Noida, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. International growth plans cover markets such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting the brand's ambition to establish a presence across key business and leisure destinations.

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