In an effort to create awareness about career opportunities in the hospitality sector, colleges affiliated with Osmania University (OU) offering Hotel Management and Culinary Arts programmes have launched an outreach initiative under the banner of the Telangana Association of Educators in Culinary and Hospitality (TEACH) on Wednesday.

With academicians, industry leaders and hospitality professionals, the event aimed at educating students and parents about the employment prospects available in hospitality, tourism, aviation, cruise tourism, healthcare hospitality, food service and related sectors.

Osmania University Vice-Chancellor Kumar Molugaram said hospitality education offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities comparable to any other profession. He noted that the university has continuously upgraded its curriculum to meet global industry standards by incorporating emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, sustainability, entrepreneurship and extensive practical training.

He urged students to choose government-approved and OU-affiliated institutions for quality education and recognised degrees.

TEACH president Saka Sudha Kumar said the initiative seeks to bridge the awareness gap surrounding hospitality careers and guide students towards recognised institutions. He pointed out that India faces a significant shortage of trained hospitality professionals, creating excellent career opportunities for graduates.

Vice-president (South India Area), Radisson Blu Hotels, Sandeep Joshi said the outlook for hospitality remains positive, with leading hotel chains continuing to expand aggressively across India and overseas markets.

According to him, today’s hospitality graduates are not limited to hotel careers alone, but have opportunities in luxury hotels and resorts, airlines and airport services, cruise lines, event and convention management, facility management, healthcare hospitality, tourism organisations and corporate guest relations among others.

Telangana Chefs Association (TCA) president Amey Marathe also emphasised that culinary education today offers opportunities far beyond traditional kitchen operations, and modern food and beverage industry encompasses a wide range of career paths. Skilled culinary professionals are among the most sought-after talent globally, and opportunities are available throughout the Middle East, Europe, North America, Australia, Southeast Asia, he said.