Pondicherry University is in the process of rolling out a new postgraduate programme in hospitality management.
Addressing the valedictory of “Akanksha 2026”, the flagship annual industry-institute interface initiative of the Department of Tourism Studies recently, Pondicherry University Vice-Chancellor P. Prakash Babu, said the new postgraduate programme in Hospitality Management was proposed to be launched from the next academic year, a press note said.
Noting that the move was part of reinforcing the university’s commitment to industry-relevant education, Mr. Prakash Babu emphasised tourism’s strategic role in regional development. He urged students to apply insights gained during the three-day interface in their corporate and entrepreneurial careers.
The event, which brought together over 25 industry leaders, academicians, international delegates, and students, discussed emerging trends in tourism, hospitality, travel technology, sustainability, and experiential tourism, and means of fostering robust academia-industry collaboration.
Sejoe Jose, Managing Director of Marvel Tours, Kochi, who was the chief guest, shared insights on innovation and ethical practices amid rapid industry transformation, while Agnese Davidsone, Rector, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia, the guest of honour, highlighted the relevance of global collaborations.
In his keynote address, Valmiki Harikishan, travel industry entrepreneur, highlighted entrepreneurial ventures in niche markets.
Sibi P. S., Head of Tourism Studies Department, underscored the annual event’s role in bridging academia and industry, and preparing students for opportunities in technology-driven, sustainable tourism. Sherry Abraham, Associate Professor and event coordinator, outlined the programme’s scope, featuring special lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and student activities.
K. Tharanikkarasu, Director (SEI&RR), Pondicherry University, presided over the inaugural session.
Post-inauguration, final-year MBA (Tourism and Travel Management) students received their appointment orders from the chief guest, marking successful placements in leading tourism, technology, and hospitality firms facilitated by the department.
Lalit Kishor Bhati, architect and urban planner, Auroville, in a special address, spoke on reimagining community-based tourism as co-creation for self-reliant development.
A panel discussion chaired by S. Sudalaimuthu, professor, Department of Banking Technology, Pondicherry University, included industry experts on smart technologies, such as Syed Abdullah Badsha, Raja Ramalingam, Alok Kumar Das, Sejoe Jose, Shashwat Ramesh, and Ilgvars Abols (Latvia).
The panelists explored AI personalisation, digital marketing, and sustainable tech integration. The session concluded with a special address by Chennai-based wellness entrepreneur Anagha Maria Varghese on leadership, unlearning powerlessness, and wellness in hospitality.
A focus session on sustainable and experiential tourism, featured Aurovilian Anjali Schiavina’s insights on ESG integration and nature connection, followed by a panel on niche experiences with experts from CGH Earth, HouseofTours.com, and others, and a SIPAS-funded workshop on stakeholder engagement attended by over 15 local professionals.
P. Natarajan, Dean, School of Management, led a team of resource persons, including Sherry Abraham, Gokulapriyan Raj, Karthik B. Pradeep and Fathima Thesleena for the proceedings, the press note said.
Published – March 06, 2026 10:59 pm IST
