FOR THE SIPAS PROJECT STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT IN COURSE CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
International Academic Collaboration Enhances Tourism Curriculum at NITHM
Hyderabad: The National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM) successfully hosted a two-day academic event in collaboration with Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia, and other international partners under the SIPAS Project, aimed at bridging academia and the tourism industry.
On Day 1, distinguished speakers from Latvia shared insights on various aspects of tourism education:
Mr. Ilgvars Abols spoke on the university’s collaboration with alumni and industry through study tours, international case studies, and real-world problem-solving exercises in tourism.
Ms. Agita Smitina emphasized career skills in tourism, highlighting the importance of soft skills, professionalism, emotional intelligence, and teamwork.
Mr. Aigars Anderson introduced smart technologies like AI, blockchain, and VR/AR in tourism and business studies, with examples of digital projects involving Nordic countries.
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Ms. Agita Livina presented on sustainability and circular economy in tourism, stressing Latvia’s nature-centric identity and the need for responsible practices.
Day 2 focused on stakeholder involvement in curriculum development:
Prof. (Dr.) Potukuchi Thryambakam welcomed participants, highlighting the role of youth in shaping the future of tourism education.
The session included dignitaries from India, Latvia, and Portugal, with Z. Hanumant Kondiba, IAS, Director, NITHM, emphasizing the need for industry-relevant curriculum and sustainable service practices.
Dr. G. Mahender Reddy outlined the SIPAS Project’s strategic framework, aiming to train faculty, integrate AR/VR tools, and benefit over 570 students.
Prof. Sampada Kumar Swain and Prof. Duarte Xara Brasil discussed gaps in industry-academia collaboration, with findings from stakeholder surveys across sectors.
Closing remarks by Ms. Agita Livina and Mr. Siraj Ansari reinforced the importance of global partnerships, skill development, and shared knowledge to enhance employability and strengthen the tourism economy.
The event marked a step forward in developing a globally aligned and practically relevant tourism curriculum, reinforcing NITHM’s role as a leader in tourism education.
Post lunch sessions was a Discussions and Deliberations on “Entrepreneurship and Green Competencies for Greening and Sustainable Tourism Business”, Moderated by Dr. Niraj Gohil, Assistant Professor, NITHM.
Another Discussions and Deliberations on “Economic and Business Trends in Asia” (Master Level and Lifelong Learners), Moderated by Dr. D. Maheshwar Reddy, Assistant Professor, NITHM. Summary of the day’s proceedings and takeaway from discussions Dr. Niraj Gohil Asst Professor, NITHM.
Reflections of the Stake Holder Work shop-Key take away for SIPAS project Prof. Agita Livina, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia. Steering Committee Member Vote of Thanks Dr. M. K. Ganesh, LEAR, SIPAS Project.
