Mr. Chandan Kumar Das is the Head of the Department of Worldwide Management Studies. He holds a Hotel Management degree in Catreen Technology from the National Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata. Thereafter, he earned a diploma in Hotel Management from a Himalayan University. Mr. Das has been associated with the industry for a long time, 5.5 years. He has been teaching students for 12 years.

Worldwide Management Studies

Being a HOD of the Department, what are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

As the Head of the Department (HOD) of Worldwide Management Studies at the Hotel Management Institute, my primary roles and responsibilities towards the students encompass a broad range of activities aimed at ensuring their academic and personal development. Firstly, I oversee curriculum development and ensure that our programmes align with industry standards and emerging trends in hotel management. I am responsible for the recruitment and development of faculty members, who play a crucial role in imparting knowledge and skills to our students. In addition to academic matters, I also strive to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. This includes addressing any concerns or challenges students may face, whether academic or personal and providing appropriate guidance and support services.

Moreover, I work closely with industry partners to facilitate internships, job placements, and networking opportunities for our students. I also aim to foster a culture of innovation and research within the department, encouraging both faculty and students to engage in projects that contribute to the field of hotel management. 

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

Establishing healthy relationships with both students and fellow faculty members is essential for creating a positive and productive academic environment. To achieve this, I employ several strategies. I believe in open and effective communication. I try to be approachable and available to students and faculty alike. I encourage them to voice their concerns, ideas, and feedback, and I actively listen to their perspectives. Building rapport with students involves more than just classroom interactions. I attend extracurricular events, workshops, and seminars, which allow me to connect with students on a personal level. I also maintain an open-door policy, ensuring that students feel comfortable seeking guidance or discussing any challenges they may encounter in their academic journey.

With fellow faculty members, collaboration is key. I promote a culture of teamwork and mutual support. I also make an effort to recognize and appreciate the contributions of both students and faculty members. Acknowledging their achievements and efforts through awards, commendations, or simple expressions of gratitude goes a long way in building positive relationships. I lead by example, demonstrating professionalism, respect, and a commitment to the values and goals of the department. Through these actions, I aim to create an inclusive and harmonious academic environment where students and faculty members feel valued, supported, and motivated to excel.

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

Uplifting the quality of education in the department has been accompanied by various challenges. Keeping the curriculum updated with industry dynamics requires ongoing effort and resources are a struggle for us. Recruiting and retaining top-notch faculty members with both academic and industry expertise can also be challenging. Ensuring access to the latest technology and resources for practical learning demands financial investments. Additionally, adapting to changing educational paradigms and student expectations, especially in the post-pandemic era, has presented unique challenges. However, overcoming these challenges involves collaborative efforts, resource allocation, and a commitment to providing students with the best possible education in hotel management.

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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 is crucial in preparing students for real-world challenges in the field of hotel management. To achieve this, I employ several strategies. I actively participate in the development and revision of the curriculum, ensuring that it is up-to-date with industry trends and practices. This includes regularly reviewing and revising course materials, introducing case studies, and incorporating real-world scenarios into class discussions. I invite guest speakers from the hospitality industry to share their experiences and insights with students. These experts provide valuable perspectives on current industry practices, trends, and challenges, making the subject matter more relatable and relevant.

Facilitating internships and workshops in collaboration with industry partners is essential. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Staying updated with the latest industry developments is crucial. I encourage faculty members to engage in ongoing professional development, attend conferences, and participate in industry forums. Regularly seeking feedback from industry stakeholders, students, and faculty helps in identifying areas where the curriculum can be further aligned with industry needs. Flexibility and adaptability are key to making continuous improvements.

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

To help students cope with the high competition in the outside world, I focus on three key areas: skill development, career guidance, and mentorship. I emphasise the development of practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge through hands-on experiences, internships, and workshops. This equips students with the competencies needed to excel in competitive job markets. I provide comprehensive career counselling and guidance, helping students identify their strengths and interests and align them with career opportunities. This includes resume building, interview preparation, and job placement support. I encourage students to connect with alumni and industry professionals, fostering valuable networks. Mentorship programs also play a vital role in offering guidance and insights from experienced professionals. By focusing on these aspects, I aim to empower students with the tools and resources they need to thrive in a competitive external environment.

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

The department's greatest strengths lie in its dedicated faculty, a curriculum aligned with industry needs, and a strong focus on practical learning. To enhance these strengths further, we can invest in faculty development programs to ensure they stay updated with the latest industry trends. Additionally, expanding industry partnerships for more internship and job placement opportunities and regularly reviewing and updating the curriculum to remain cutting-edge will bolster the department's strengths.

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

I would advise students to focus on continuous learning and adaptability, as the hospitality industry evolves rapidly. Build a strong network of industry contacts, seek internships and real-world experiences, and never stop improving your communication and problem-solving skills. Stay passionate about your chosen field, be resilient in the face of challenges, and embrace innovation. A prosperous career in hotel management is built on a foundation of dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.