Dr. Sandiyan is a Hospitality and Tourism professional with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Besides working in academics, he has also worked full-time with several leading corporations such as Taj Group of Hotels and P and O Cruises. Dr. Sandiyan holds degrees a diploma from IHM Kolkata, Master's in Tourism Management from IGNOU, an M.Phil in Tourism Management from Madurai Kamaraj Unviersity and a PhD in Tourism and Hospitality Services from IGNOU.

Chef Sandilyan has worked as Principal, Professor and HOD at leading universities like GNA University, RIHMCT and more. He is an active participant in research work and has published several papers on national and international grounds. For his contribution, Chef Sandilyan has received numerous awards as well. Outside of his university work, he even contributes his time as a consultant for hospitality institutes and hotels.

C V Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar

How does your university differentiate itself from the competition?

CGU is a skill-oriented university offering the best of expert faculties and infrastructure to transform students into professionals as per the hospitality demands and trends. The Hospitality & Tourism University is the only university in the country which has participated and won medals in all skill levels at National Level and in Restaurant Service at World Skill Competition, Switzerland, 2022. Our focus is on ‘Learning by Doing’ which makes our students proficient to meet the challenging nature of the industry.

What are the initiatives at CVRGU are helping students become more industrial-ready?

To make our students ready to work in real-life, we try to give them opportunities to gain practical experience while they are studying. We have an experiential learning system and have also included numerous professional development programs. During the academic year, we have industry experts and top chefs visiting our campus as faculty, events and conferences. Our students get the chance to opt for our student exchange program through our collaboration with IMI Switzerland. There is a dedicated department for career guidance and placement support.

What are the key attributes a student must possess in the Hospitality Industry?

Hospitality students need to possess both technical and soft skills. As this is a role involving communicating with people, one must have strong interpersonal skills. Customer service abilities with that ability to adapt to any situation, should be the goal for all hospitality students. The ideal student in this field has problem solving abilities, is attentive and most importantly culturally sensitive. Often this role requires leadership for one’s own work and the ability to promote ethical conduct.

How do you tend to develop professional skills among your students?

Our university provides best in practical training in field through our world-class laboratories that has been made as per industry standards. We have collorborations with ITC hotels, Taj Group of Hotels, Accor Group, Absolute Group of Hotels, Novotel hotels who help us with internships and placements. Our staff organizes guest lectures, workshops, leadership development courses, industry visits and experiential learning towards this end. 

We are constantly encouraging students to stay updated on industry trends, attend conferences and workshops, and pursue advanced degrees or specialized training programs for long-term career development. There is a mentorship and feedback system in place that provides scope for students to improve. Graduating students receive placement assistance through mock interviews, resume preparation classes etc. Our students also network intensively that helps them know what is expected from them in the industry.

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What are the latest programs you are offering at CVRGU best for students?

Presently, we are offering a Bachelor of Science degree in different specialisations. Students can choose between Hotel and Hospitality Administration, Culinary and Pastry Arts, Airlines, Tourism and Hospitality for the undergraduate degree. At the postgraduate level, we have a Master of Science degree in Hotel Administration and Travel and Tourism Management. We even offer PhD degrees for individuals who possess a masters degree. It can be pursued in Tourism and Hotel Management. 

What are you doing to improve campus placements for your current students?

As the face of education keeps changing, so do we have to keep adapting ourselves to provide the very best to our students. We have industry partnerships and have aligned our curriculum to match industry standards. Our faculty has years of experience in the field and there are also occasional guest lectures. Besides the core courses, there are numerous professional development programmes in place for students to up skill. Students receive internship and placement assistance from the college and from our alumni. A star in our efforts to improve ourselves is through our upcoming campus at Absolute Hotels in Eastin.

What sort of companies are students placed in by your University?

In the past years, our students have received suitable jobs at Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, ITC Group of Hotels, Accor, Radisson Hotel Group and Lemon Tree Group of Hotels. International chains like Marriott International, Hyatt Group of Hotels and Westin Hotels and Resorts have recruited our students. In the public sector, IRCTC and ITDC are regular hirers for our students. Other notable recruiters include the Carnival Cruise lines/ Disney Cruise lines/ Princess Cruise lines, Jubilant Food Works- Dominos and Club Mahindra Hotels and Resorts.

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Any message you would like to give to the current youth and aspiring students?

I would like to convey a message of encouragement and inspiration as students embark on their journey in the hospitality industry. Follow your passion and choose a career path that genuinely excites you. The hospitality industry offers diverse opportunities, from culinary arts to hotel management, event planning to tourism. Find your niche and pursue it with enthusiasm. 

The hospitality industry is dynamic and ever evolving. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning, as it will be essential for your growth and success. Stay updated with industry trends, technological advancements, and emerging customer preferences. Success in the hospitality industry often comes with hard work and dedication. Be prepared to put in the effort, demonstrate resilience, and go the extra mile to deliver exceptional service and memorable experiences to guests. 

The hospitality industry attracts people from different cultures, backgrounds, and nationalities. Embrace diversity and cultivate cultural competence. Respect and appreciate different customs, traditions, and perspectives, as this will enrich your interactions with guests and colleagues.