The MoU has been extended for a period of five years. It was signed between the two organisations on Tuesday in the presence of tourism minister K Chiranjeevi.
The collaboration between the two national bodies began in the year 2002. Through the collaborative arrangement, students pursue 5 theory subjects offered by IGNOU and 34 subjects taught through full-time institute laboratory and classroom learning in the various operational aspects of hospitality, to qualify for a three-year BSc degree which is conferred by IGNOU.
The annual academic schedules, orientation programmes for faculty and other such activities are monitored through a joint co-ordination committee comprising IGNOU and NCHMCT officials which meets periodically.
Head of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Services Management at IGNOU is in-charge of the programme and handles its affairs through appointment of IGNOU co-ordinators at each of the NCHMCT affiliated Institutes of Hotel Management.
The renewal of MoU will provide greater recognition to the hospitality programme in the country, which is witnessing major tourism growth and consequently requires a large number of trained personnel.
