Ms. Sana Qamer is the Principal at SIMS Institute of Hospitality and Hotel Management. She holds a M.Sc. Mathematics degree from MLB College, Bhopal. She has around 11 years of experience in the teaching field. She has won 3rd Prize at a national level competition for teachers organized by Dell & LXL Ideas.

SIMS Institute of Hospitality and Hotel Management

What motivated you to choose a path in higher education administration, and what attracted you to your current position as a principal/vice-principal?

I have always been passionate about education and the transformative power it holds. As I progressed in my academic journey, I realized the significant impact that administrators have on shaping the educational experience for students. Witnessing the positive changes that effective administrators bring to institutions motivated me to pursue a career in higher education administration. The role of a principal offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of students, teachers, and the entire school community. The position allows me to lead and inspire a team of dedicated educators, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where students thrive academically and personally. I am attracted to the challenges that come with this role, such as implementing innovative teaching methods, promoting equity and diversity, and ensuring the overall well-being of students. Being a principal allows me to utilize my leadership skills and passion for education to create a positive and enriching educational experience for all stakeholders involved.

What’s your vision for the college?

As the Principal, my vision for the college is to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth that helps students achieve successful careers. I aim to cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration, where students are encouraged to think critically, embrace diversity, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Additionally, I envision the college as a hub of holistic development, providing ample opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service, thereby preparing them to become responsible global citizens.

How do you tend to establish a relationship with the students being the Principal/ Vice-Principal of the university? How do you make yourself available to them?

As the college principal, I believe in fostering a strong and positive relationship with the students. I believe accessibility is crucial in building a strong rapport with students. To make myself available, I employ multiple approaches. Firstly, I maintain regular office hours where students can schedule appointments to discuss any issues or seek guidance. Secondly, I actively engage with students through various communication channels such as regular meetings, forums, and events. This ensures that students can reach out to me conveniently and receive timely responses. Lastly, I make it a priority to attend student events to create opportunities for direct interaction and dialogue. By actively listening to their concerns, ideas, and suggestions, I aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages student participation and success.

What advice would you offer to the present-day youth and aspiring students?

My advice to the students is to prioritize your education and set clear goals. Take advantage of the available resources, such as libraries, regular classes, and other educational platforms. Develop good study habits, manage your time effectively, and seek help when needed. Remember that learning is a lifelong journey, so embrace curiosity and never stop seeking knowledge. I advise students to explore their passions and interests outside of academics. Engage in extracurricular activities that align with your hobbies or aspirations. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who inspire you to grow. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, take risks, and learn from failures. Remember to maintain a healthy work-life balance, prioritize self-care, and enjoy the journey of self-discovery.

Check SIMS Institute of Hospitality and Hotel Management Courses & Fees

What specific measures or programs has your institution implemented to address the increasing mental health issues and stress among today’s youth?

At SIMS, we understand the significance of addressing mental health issues and stress among today’s youth. To tackle this, we have implemented various specific measures and programs. Firstly, we have established a student support center that provides a safe and confidential space for students to seek guidance and support. This center offers one-on-one counseling sessions with trained professionals. We have also implemented a peer support program, training students to become mental health ambassadors who can provide support and resources to their peers. By combining these measures, our institution strives to create a supportive environment that prioritizes the mental well-being of our youth. Our institution also offers various extracurricular activities, such as yoga classes and mindfulness workshops, to encourage students to adopt healthy coping strategies and prioritize their mental well-being.

What are your primary responsibilities as a Principal/ Vice-Principal, and how do you balance them with other aspects of your job?

As the principal of a hotel management college, my primary responsibilities include overseeing the overall administration and management of the college, ensuring the quality of education and training provided to students, developing and implementing academic programs, managing the faculty and staff, maintaining industry partnerships, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, I am responsible for fostering a positive learning environment, promoting student success, and enhancing the college's reputation. Balancing my primary responsibilities as a principal with other aspects of my job requires effective time management and prioritization. I allocate dedicated time for administrative tasks, such as strategic planning, budgeting, and policy development, to ensure the smooth functioning of the college. I also make it a priority to interact regularly with faculty, staff, and students to address their needs and concerns. Additionally, I actively engage in industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to stay updated with the latest trends and maintain industry connections. By delegating tasks, collaborating with my team, and maintaining open communication, I can balance my responsibilities and ensure the overall success of the college.

What differentiates your college from other institutions in terms of its unique attributes and offerings?

SIMS stands out from other institutions due to its focus on experiential learning and industry partnerships. We provide our students with hands-on training and real-world experiences, allowing them to develop practical skills that are highly sought after in the hospitality industry. Additionally, we have established strong connections with leading hotels and resorts, providing our students with exclusive internship and job placement opportunities. These unique attributes ensure our graduates are well-prepared and have a competitive edge in the job market.

In your experience, what benefits students can gain from studying here in your college?

Students studying at SIMS gain a multitude of benefits. Firstly, SIMS offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of hotel management, including front office operations, food and beverage management, housekeeping, and event planning. This provides students with a well-rounded education and prepares them for various roles within the hospitality industry. Additionally, our college offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. We believe that practical experience is crucial in the hospitality industry, so we provide students with ample opportunities to work in our fully-equipped hotel facilities, allowing them to apply their learning in a real-world setting. This practical learning approach ensures that our graduates are ready to hit the ground running in their careers. Also, our college has strong industry connections and partnerships with leading hotels and resorts. Our graduates often secure job placements even before completing their studies, thanks to our extensive network and reputation within the industry. Overall, studying at SIMS provides students with a solid foundation in hospitality management, practical skills, industry exposure, and excellent career prospects, making it a highly beneficial choice for aspiring hotel professionals.

How does the curriculum of your college ensure the best practices of industry?

SIMS ensures the best practices of the industry by designing a curriculum that is regularly updated to align with the latest trends and demands of the hospitality sector. Our faculty members actively engage in research and attend industry conferences to remain well-informed about evolving practices. We establish strong industry connections and partnerships, which enable us to stay updated with the latest trends and developments. We regularly invite guest speakers from renowned hotels and hospitality organizations to share their expertise and insights with our students. This input helps us integrate practical knowledge, case studies, and real-world scenarios into our courses, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the industry.