Mr. Deepak C. Shekhar is the Professor at Dangayach School of Hotel Management. He has held prominent roles as a Professor in Hotel Management at DSHM. His commitment to education is reflected in his ability to impart theoretical knowledge while integrating real-world insights. He has mentored and inspired numerous students, equipping them with the skills and mindset required for success in the hospitality industry. With over a decade of hands-on experience in the Food and beverage domain, Deepak has a deep understanding of F&B operations. He has worked in various capacities, including F&B manager, consultant, and trainer. His expertise extends to menu planning, staff training, customer service, and optimizing operational efficiency in F&B establishments in various reputed Hotels and chains. He is a Member of the Indian Culinary Forum Association, North India (ICFA) and International School Cook Association, Riadh (ISCA). 

Dangayach School of Hotel Management

Being a Faculty of  the Food and Beverage (F & B) department, Dangayach School of Hotel Management, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As a faculty member in the Food and Beverage (F&B) department, my roles and responsibilities revolve around fostering a positive learning environment, imparting knowledge and skills, and supporting the overall development of my students. I am responsible for designing and delivering course content that aligns with the curriculum guidelines. This involves creating engaging lectures, practical sessions, and assessments that cater to various learning styles and abilities. I actively engage students in the learning process by encouraging questions, discussions, and interactive activities. This helps in promoting critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. In the F&B department, practical skills are crucial. I organize and oversee hands-on training sessions, ensuring that students gain proficiency in various culinary techniques, food safety practices, and service protocols. I establish and maintain connections with industry professionals, inviting guest speakers, organizing field trips, and facilitating internships. This helps students bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. Based on feedback, industry trends, and emerging technologies, I actively contribute to the enhancement of the curriculum. This involves revising course content, integrating new technologies, and updating teaching methodologies. In summary, my role as a faculty member in the F&B department involves not only teaching theoretical knowledge but also imparting practical skills, fostering a passion for the subject, and preparing students for successful careers in the industry.

How do you tend to establish healthy relationships with the students and fellow faculty members?

Establishing healthy relationships with students and fellow faculty members is crucial for creating a positive and productive learning and working environment. I believe in open and transparent communication as the foundation of any healthy relationship. I actively listen to the students’ and colleagues' concerns, ideas, and feedback, and I make sure to express my thoughts and expectations clearly. I approach interactions with respect for the individuality of each student and colleague. I take the time to understand their perspectives, needs, and challenges. Demonstrating empathy helps in building trust and rapport. Recognizing and acknowledging the efforts and achievements of students and colleagues is essential. I make sure to provide constructive feedback and praise where it's due, which boosts motivation and contributes to a positive atmosphere. I maintain a professional demeanor while interacting with students and colleagues, setting an example of respectful behavior. This includes being punctual, adhering to deadlines, and treating everyone equally. I focus on understanding the root

causes, finding common ground, and working toward a solution that benefits everyone involved. I am open to self-reflection and continuous improvement in my interactions. Feedback from students, colleagues, and self-assessment helps me identify areas for growth and refine my relationship-building strategies. In essence, my approach revolves around creating an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration, where students and colleagues feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed both academically and professionally.

How do you try to bring in a practical approach towards subjects and make it industry-oriented?

Bringing a practical and industry-oriented approach to subjects involves several strategies to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Incorporate case studies and examples from actual industry scenarios that demonstrate the concepts being taught. This helps students understand how theoretical concepts are applied in real business situations. Invite professionals from the industry to give guest lectures. They can share their experiences, challenges, and insights, providing students with a direct connection to the practical aspects of the subject matter. Design assignments that require students to analyze real industry problems, gather data, and propose solutions. This encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Establish partnerships with local businesses, startups, or established companies. This can lead to joint initiatives, such as workshops, seminars, or collaborative research projects. Organize networking events, job fairs, and panel discussions where students can interact with industry professionals. This helps them build connections and gain insights into potential career paths. Implement capstone projects where students work on comprehensive projects that integrate multiple aspects of the subject. This culminates in a tangible output that showcases their ability to apply knowledge to real-world problems. Share news, articles, and case studies related to the subject to keep students informed about industry developments beyond the classroom. By adopting these strategies, educators can create a dynamic learning environment that not only imparts theoretical knowledge but also equips students with the skills and perspectives needed to excel in real-world professional settings.

What are the best practices offered by the department to the students which help them gain the necessary skills?

The department offers several best practices to students to help them gain the necessary skills for their academic and professional development. The department ensures that the curriculum is up-to-date and aligned with industry trends and demands. This helps students learn the most relevant and current skills that are in demand in their field. Providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning, such as practical projects, laboratory sessions, and internships, allows them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and gain practical skills. Conducting workshops and training sessions focused on specific skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and technical skills, helps students develop a well-rounded skill set. Pairing students with mentors, whether faculty members or professionals from the industry, provides personalized guidance and support for their skill development and career growth. Encouraging collaborative learning among students fosters knowledge sharing, teamwork, and diverse perspectives, enhancing their overall learning experience. Regular feedback from faculty, peers, and industry partners helps students identify areas for improvement and adjust their learning strategies accordingly. Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, the department stays agile by updating its methods, tools, and resources to keep up with the evolving needs of the industry. Providing access to well-equipped libraries, online resources, software, and hardware tools helps students explore and practice their skills effectively. Encouraging participation in clubs, hackathons, competitions, and conferences allows students to network, showcase their skills, and stay updated on the latest developments in their field. By implementing these best practices, the department equips students with the necessary skills to excel academically and professionally, preparing them for a successful and fulfilling career.

How do you strategize the curriculum and how often it gets updated to make it befitting for the students?

Strategizing the curriculum and ensuring its continuous updates to align with the needs of students is a crucial aspect of educational planning. Before creating or updating a curriculum, it's essential to assess the needs of the students. This involves understanding their learning styles, abilities, backgrounds, and future goals. Conduct surveys, and interviews, and gather feedback from students, parents, and teachers to gain insights into their requirements. Clearly define the learning objectives and outcomes you want to achieve with the curriculum. What knowledge, skills, and competencies do you want the students to acquire? This will serve as the foundation for designing the curriculum content. Involve experienced educators and subject matter experts in the curriculum development process. They can provide valuable insights into effective teaching methods, content selection, and pedagogical approaches that suit the students' needs. Implement a continuous evaluation and feedback loop. Regularly gather input from students, teachers, and stakeholders to identify areas that need improvement. Analyse assessment results, graduation outcomes, and job placements to measure the effectiveness of the curriculum. Integrate technology tools and resources that enhance the learning experience. Incorporate digital learning platforms, interactive simulations, and online resources that cater to various learning styles. Foster relationships with industry professionals and employers to understand the current job market requirements. Design the curriculum to be flexible and adaptability. This enables quick adjustments in response to unforeseen circumstances, such as changes in educational policies, societal shifts, or technological breakthroughs. In conclusion, a successful curriculum strategy involves a student-centered approach, alignment with standards and trends, collaboration with educators, regular evaluation, and adaptability to change. The goal is to create a dynamic and effective learning experience that equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

What are your views on the placements and higher education about the students from your department, how does your department prepare students for Higher education?

Placements and higher education are crucial aspects of a student's academic journey, as they pave the way for their future careers and personal growth. In my view, a well-rounded educational experience should ideally strike a balance between preparing students for immediate job opportunities through placements and providing a strong foundation for pursuing higher education. For students who are inclined towards joining the workforce directly after completing their undergraduate or postgraduate studies, placements offer a valuable bridge between academia and industry. They provide students with exposure to real-world job roles, interview processes, and a chance to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. A department's efforts in securing quality placement opportunities reflect its commitment to producing job-ready graduates. However, higher education should not be overlooked. Pursuing further studies through postgraduate programs or research opportunities can deepen a student's understanding of their chosen field and open doors to specialized roles, advanced research, and academic careers. Therefore, it's essential that a department also equips its students with the academic rigor and critical thinking skills needed for success in higher education. The curriculum should focus on building a solid foundation of fundamental concepts and theories in the field. A department that values both aspects and provides the necessary resources can empower students to make informed decisions about their future, whether in the workforce or in advanced studies.

How do you help your student to cope with the competition being so high in the outside world? 

Helping students cope with high competition in the outside world is an essential aspect of education and mentorship. Here's how I would address this question in an interview: In a world where competition is increasingly intense, it's crucial to prepare students not only academically but also emotionally and mentally for the challenges they will face. I would emphasize the importance of having a growth mindset. This means encouraging students to see challenges and failures as opportunities for learning and growth, rather than setbacks. When students believe that their abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance, they are more likely to tackle challenges head-on. Instead of solely emphasizing comparison with others, I would encourage students to focus on their personal progress. By setting individual goals and tracking their own improvement, students can build self-confidence and a sense of achievement that isn't solely tied to external competition. While competition exists, collaboration is equally important. Students can learn a lot from working with their peers, sharing ideas, and benefiting from diverse perspectives. Collaboration helps build teamwork skills and can foster a supportive learning environment. Beyond academic knowledge, I would emphasize the importance of developing practical skills that are highly valued in the professional world. This could include communication skills, critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability – qualities that can set students apart regardless of the competitive landscape. Overall, my approach revolves around equipping students with not just academic knowledge, but also a set of life skills and a positive mindset that will enable them to thrive in a competitive world while maintaining their well-being and self-confidence.

Do you have any extracurricular activities/ programs to enhance the skills of the students or expose them to real-world challenges?

Certainly! At our institution, we strongly believe in providing a well-rounded education that goes beyond the classroom. We offer a range of extracurricular activities and programs specifically designed to enhance the skills of our students and expose them to real-world challenges. These activities and programs serve to complement the academic curriculum and provide students with practical experiences that prepare them for success in their future careers. We have established partnerships with various companies and organizations, allowing our students to participate in internships and co-op programs. This provides them with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, gain practical skills, and make valuable industry connections. We invite professionals, entrepreneurs, and experts from various fields to deliver talks and workshops. This exposes our students to different perspectives, industry insights, and practical advice, helping them understand the real challenges and opportunities they might encounter in their careers. We organize workshops and seminars conducted by industry experts. 

Check Dangayach School of Hotel Management Courses & Fees

What are the challenges you faced/ are facing to uplift the quality of education of your department?

In my efforts to uplift the quality of education in my department, I have encountered several challenges that I am actively addressing. These challenges encompass various aspects of educational improvement Ensuring that the department has access to adequate resources, including updated textbooks, learning materials, and technological tools, has been a challenge. To address this, I have been advocating for increased budget allocation and seeking external partnerships to enhance resource availability. Improving the skills and competencies of faculty members is crucial for delivering high-quality education. I have been organizing regular workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance their teaching methodologies, research capabilities, and overall professional development. Maintaining student engagement in an increasingly digital age can be difficult. To combat this, I have introduced interactive teaching methods, blended learning approaches, and platforms that encourage student participation and collaboration. Ensuring an inclusive and diverse learning environment can be challenging, particularly in terms of accommodating different learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and abilities. I am focused on creating an inclusive classroom atmosphere through sensitivity training, diverse course content, and accessible teaching materials. Providing adequate academic and emotional support to students is vital for their success. I have established mentorship programs, counseling services, and academic advising to address students' individual needs and challenges.

When you came to the college, what was your vision and how are you trying to achieve the same?

When I entered college, my vision was to make the most of this educational opportunity by striving for personal and academic growth, fostering meaningful relationships, and contributing positively to both the college community and my own development. To achieve this vision, I've been following a strategic approach. I aimed to excel in my studies by maintaining a strong work ethic, attending classes regularly, participating actively in discussions, and seeking help when needed. I set realistic goals for each semester and consistently worked towards achieving them. This has helped me maintain a high GPA while gaining a deep understanding of the subjects I'm studying. I recognized the importance of holistic development, so I engaged in extracurricular activities that aligned with my interests and career aspirations. I joined relevant clubs, and organizations, and participated in events that allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to practical situations, enhance my leadership skills, and build a well-rounded skill set. Giving back to the college community has been an integral part of my vision. I've volunteered for community service projects, collaborated with classmates on group projects, and actively participated in initiatives that promote the well-being of students. By being a responsible and engaged member of the college community, I've contributed positively to the environment around me. I understood that college is not just about academics but also about personal growth. I've challenged myself to step out of my comfort zone, take on leadership roles, and confront new experiences. This has helped me develop a strong sense of self-awareness, adaptability, and resilience. 

How does the curriculum of your department/college ensure the best practice of the industry?

The curriculum of our college is meticulously designed to ensure the integration of industry best practices, providing students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their respective fields. We maintain strong partnerships and collaborations with leading companies and professionals in the relevant industry. This enables us to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and practices that are actively shaping the industry landscape. We have established advisory boards comprising industry experts, practitioners, and alumni who provide valuable insights and guidance. They review and provide input on the curriculum, ensuring that it remains relevant and aligned with the changing demands of the industry. Our curriculum is subject to regular reviews to incorporate emerging technologies, methodologies, and best practices. This ensures that students are exposed to the most current and relevant information, enabling them to adapt quickly to industry advancements. We emphasize project-based learning, where students work on real-world projects that mirror industry challenges. This approach helps students apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, preparing them for the demands of the professional world. We encourage students to participate in internships and co-op programs with industry-leading companies. These opportunities provide firsthand experience of industry practices, networking with professionals, and gaining insights into the day-to-day operations of the field. We frequently invite industry professionals as guest lecturers and workshop facilitators. By integrating real-world practices, staying updated on industry trends, and fostering hands-on experience, we ensure that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the industry and contribute meaningfully to their chosen professions.

How does the department/ college/University enhance the skills of the faculty and prepares them according to the industry standards?

Ensuring that the faculty is well-equipped with up-to-date skills and aligned with industry standards is a critical aspect of maintaining the quality of education and fostering a dynamic learning environment within the college. At DSHM, we have implemented several strategies to enhance the skills of our faculty and ensure they are prepared to meet industry standards effectively. We understand that the educational landscape and industry trends evolve rapidly. Therefore, we prioritize continuous professional development for our faculty members. Regular workshops, seminars, and training sessions are organized where experts from various industries and academia share their insights. This helps our faculty stay abreast of the latest developments and best practices in their respective fields. We foster strong connections with industries related to our academic disciplines. This collaboration allows our faculty to gain real-world insights and practical knowledge directly from professionals in the field. Industry experts are invited to give guest lectures, conduct workshops, and even participate in curriculum design, ensuring that our faculty's teaching methods and content remain relevant and aligned with current industry needs. We encourage our faculty to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation. By staying involved in research, they can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their fields and gain a deeper understanding of industry trends. This hands-on experience is invaluable in preparing them to deliver relevant and insightful education to our students. We support our faculty in obtaining relevant professional certifications and accreditations. These certifications validate their expertise and demonstrate their commitment to staying current with industry standards. This, in turn, enhances their credibility and ability to guide students effectively. We promote a culture of peer learning and collaboration among our faculty members. Regular faculty meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and interdisciplinary collaborations encourage the exchange of ideas, best practices, and experiences. This approach ensures that the collective knowledge and expertise of our faculty contribute to the overall growth of the institution. We believe in a feedback-driven approach to improvement. Regular evaluations from students, industry partners, and academic peers provide valuable insights into the strengths and areas for growth for our faculty. This feedback loop helps us tailor our development initiatives to meet specific needs. In conclusion, DSHM is dedicated to ensuring that our faculty remains well-prepared and aligned with industry standards. Our commitment to continuous learning, industry engagement, research, and collaboration empowers our faculty to provide a world-class education that equips our students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields.

What are the interventions and approaches you bring in apart from the curriculum to train/ teach the students?

Beyond the curriculum, I believe in implementing a holistic and student-centered approach to education that considers their overall development and well-being. Recognizing that students have diverse learning styles, abilities, and needs, I employ differentiated instruction. This involves tailoring my teaching methods, content, and assessment strategies to accommodate various learning preferences and paces. Encouraging students to ask questions, explore, and discover knowledge on their own fosters a sense of curiosity and independent thinking. I design activities that prompt students to investigate and find solutions, enhancing their research and analytical skills. Integrating technology into the classroom enhances engagement and prepares students for a tech-driven world. I leverage educational tools, online resources, and interactive platforms to create a dynamic learning environment. Creating space for open discussions and debates promotes critical thinking, communication, and respectful exchange of ideas. This approach encourages students to articulate their thoughts, consider diverse perspectives, and build effective communication skills. Regular formative assessments, such as quizzes, polls, and peer evaluations, provide valuable feedback to both students and me. This approach allows for timely adjustments to teaching strategies and helps students track their progress. Recognizing and respecting diverse backgrounds and experiences in the classroom is essential. I integrate culturally relevant materials and examples to create an inclusive learning environment where students feel valued and understood. Recognizing that each student has unique strengths and challenges, I provide one-on-one support when needed. This might involve extra help, additional resources, or personalized guidance to ensure that every student can thrive. Incorporating mindfulness techniques and stress reduction exercises can help students manage academic pressure and develop tools for maintaining mental well-being. These interventions and approaches combine to create a rich and engaging educational experience that goes beyond the traditional curriculum, nurturing students' intellectual, emotional, and social growth.

What do you see as the department’s/ college’s greatest strengths and how it can be enhanced?

I believe the DSHM has several remarkable strengths that form the foundation of its success. These strengths, when strategically enhanced, can further elevate the reputation and effectiveness of the institution. One of the DSHM's greatest strengths lies in its talented and committed faculty and staff members. Their expertise, passion for teaching, and dedication to student success contribute significantly to the institution's reputation. The commitment to diversity and inclusivity within the department/college creates a vibrant and enriching learning environment. This diversity of perspectives fosters a more comprehensive understanding of various subject matters. To enhance the department's strengths, a focus on continuous professional development for faculty and staff could be implemented. This could include workshops, seminars, and training programs that keep educators updated with the latest teaching methodologies and research trends. Strengthening connections with alumni can lead to a more robust network for students, offering mentorship, internship, and job placement opportunities. Alumni could be involved in guest lectures, workshops, and panels to provide insights from their professional journeys. To amplify the benefits of diversity, the department could promote interdisciplinary learning by encouraging collaborations between different programs. This approach can prepare students for the multidisciplinary challenges of the modern job market. Continuously improving inclusivity initiatives can create an even more welcoming environment. This could involve targeted outreach efforts, scholarships for underrepresented groups, and cultural awareness programs. In conclusion, the department/college boasts several noteworthy strengths that can be further enhanced to ensure continued excellence. By investing in faculty development, research opportunities, industry partnerships, alumni engagement, and inclusivity initiatives, the institution can solidify its position as a leader in education and innovation.

What valuable advice would you like to the students for them to have a prosperous career ahead?

Take the time to explore various subjects, hobbies, and activities to discover what truly excites you. Your career is likely to be more fulfilling if it aligns with your passions. Define both short-term and long-term goals for your career. Having clear objectives will help you stay focused and motivated, guiding your decisions and actions. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. The world is constantly evolving, so staying up-to-date with new knowledge and skills is crucial for staying competitive. Effective communication is essential in every field. Work on your writing, speaking, and active listening skills to convey your ideas and understand others better. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Cultivate resilience to bounce back from failures, learn from mistakes, and adapt to changes. Build and maintain a professional network. Networking can provide you with valuable insights, opportunities, and connections that can accelerate your career growth. Learn to manage your time effectively. Prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout. Develop a strong work ethic. Consistent effort and a willingness to go the extra mile can set you apart from others. In a globalized world, understanding different cultures and perspectives is crucial. It enhances collaboration and helps you work effectively in diverse teams. Understand the basics of personal finance, including budgeting, saving, and investing. This will contribute to your overall stability and well-being. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Take initiative, propose ideas, and volunteer for projects that showcase your skills and potential. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. A healthy body and mind are essential for sustained career success. Remember, everyone's career path is unique, so it's important to find what works best for you.