Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Hotels Company Ltd. (Taj Group) and the Directorate of Skill Development, Government of Goa, in Panaji.
This collaboration paves the way for India’s largest hospitality skilling centre in Goa, aimed at creating enhanced employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
“This initiative is a major step forward in the government’s commitment to Skilling, Reskilling, and Upskilling young professionals, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in the ever-evolving tourism and hospitality landscape. IHCL’s expertise and industry leadership will play a pivotal role in empowering Goa’s youth with specialised training, enhancing their career prospects, and contributing to the state’s economic growth,” stated the Chief Minister.
The skilling centre will offer a comprehensive range of training programmes and workshops, tailored to meet industry demands and global hospitality standards.
“This partnership reaffirms Goa’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and reinforcing its position as a premier global tourism destination,” added Dr Sawant.
The MoU signing took place in the presence of Education Secretary Prasad Lolayekar, Director of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship S. S. Gaonkar, and Managing Director & CEO of IHCL, Puneet Chhatwal, among others.
“Goa is the country’s leading leisure destination and has long been a hub for tourism. IHCL’s initiative will open new employment opportunities for the youth, supporting Goa’s vision for continued growth and advancement in the tourism sector. This MOU is reflective of our joint commitment to develop a sustainable tourism eco-system and we are pleased to be associated with IHCL, India’s leading hospitality company for this initiative,” affirmed Dr Sawant.
Puneet Chhatwal said: “Continuing its pioneering leadership in Goa for over five decades, IHCL is committed to enriching Goa’s hospitality landscape. The upcoming skilling centre, in line with our ESG+ framework of Paathya, will bridge the employability gap and equip a skilled workforce to support Goa’s vibrant travel and tourism industry.”
The skilling centre will offer a series of sessions to impart essential foundational literacy and hospitality-specific programs including front office, housekeeping, food production and food and beverage service preparing participants for careers in the industry. It will also feature industry-based internships that provide hands-on experience in corporate environments, bridging the gap between education and employment.
Under its industry leading ESG+ framework of Paathya, IHCL with 47 skilling centres, continues to invest in talent pools to support deserving youth and their families, enhancing employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the hospitality sector.
