Students are encouraged to participate in discussion and case solving, says Prof. Bimal Kumar Ekka

Bimal Kumar Ekka, faculty at School of Hospitality Management, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai - Navi Mumbai Campus, hospitality academician and trainer has over 24 years of vital experience in the field of hospitality and tourism, has worked in various institutes and in various curriculum (as per the institute's affiliation) including syllabus of Les Cordon Blue, University of Mumbai, American hotel & lodging educational institute, Queen Margaret University Scotland, National Council of Hotel Management and Catering Technology New Delhi. She is also responsible for conducting food production theory and practical classes for students and developing them into effective and efficient hotelier.

In this Take 5-Series with Shiksha, Prof. Bimal Kumar Ekka talks about the unique aspects of studying at School of Hospitality Management, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai - Navi Mumbai Campus; the kind of projects, internships and placement opportunities that students have, the best programs to study and how to take admission to these.

Q. What are the salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by your college? How does this differ from others?

The salient features of the teaching methodology adopted by our college are: 

• It is very interactive in nature. Students are encouraged to participate in discussion and case solving
• Teaching with examples especially those which are prevalent in the hospitality industry
• Students are motivated to do their self-research and provide their own opinions

Q. How are you preparing your students to be Industry ready?

• By keeping a tab on the changes in technology, techniques and latest adaptation in the industry
• Comparing with different groups of the Hospitality industry including tourism and travel industry
• Intensive skill development and rigorous practices accordingly

Q. What are the qualities you are looking for in student applicants? What qualities do they need to do well in your course?

• The knack for servicing and interacting with customers
• Dedication and sincerity to learn and adapt to new methods applicable
• Excellent communication skills and good grooming

Q. How do you ensure that your course curriculum is up to date and meets industry requirements?

• Interacting with the industry people
• Organising guest lectures on a regular basis by eminent people from the industry
• Facilitate and conduct curriculum-related workshops

Q. Is your college receptive to innovation, technology, science & entrepreneurship? How? Could you cite some examples of these?

Yes, our college is receptive to innovation, technology, science & entrepreneurship

We have conducted a pre-induction for an entire week apart from the regular orientation program

We do teaching through movies, field trips and various group activities

The pre-induction program had sessions by eminent personalities from various industries such as hotels, travel agencies, airlines, entrepreneur, etc.

Encouraging students to used e-library and research materials