Thomas cook (India) Ltd, the largest integrated travel and travel-related financial services company in India, announced a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM) in Mumbai on April 11.A unique two-year postgraduate diploma programme in international business management focusing on tourism, has been developed with support and guidance of the Thomas Cook Centre of Learning, an initiative for training and developing professional talent for the travel industry. The programme, approved by the All India Council for Technical Education, offers dual specialisation for learners to enable them to acquire flexible skillsets which can be adapted to the needs of employers. The programme includes case-based learning and exposure to international business environments with Thomas Cook India facilitating practical training and internships.
Promoted in 1983 by the Union ministry of tourism, IITTM is the oldest and largest tourism school in South Asia. The institute is engaged in diverse activities ranging from teaching and training to research and consultancy in tourism and allied fields. With its headquarters in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, IITTM also has centres in Delhi, Goa, Bhubaneswar and Nellore. All IITTM centres offer two-year postgraduate diplomas in tourism management, and certified training programmes for tour guides licenced by the Central and state governments.
Its new international business programme, developed in partnership with Thomas Cooks Centre of Learning, will train students to enhance their skills and manage the challenges of the fast-expanding travel, tourism and hospitality industries. This is a unique experiment to bring realtime experience into classrooms. Learners will have valuable exposure to the real world during the programme which will enhance learning. This is just the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship. IITTM looks forward to multiple opportunities of cooperation with Thomas Cook India, said Prof. Manjula Chaudhury, director of IITTM, speaking on the occasion.