Awantipora: In a move to strengthen academia-industry linkages, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) Kashmir team on Tuesday participated in an interactive session on “Tourism Apprenticeship Model for Academia-Industry Collaboration” at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora.
The session focused on enhancing employability in key sectors like tourism and hospitality through structured apprenticeship-led education, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Addressing the gathering, PHDCCI Kashmir head Vicky Shaw emphasized the urgency for higher education institutions to integrate UGC-mandated apprenticeship and internship-embedded degree programs. “The future of education lies in experiential learning,” Mr. Shaw said, adding that universities such as IUST have a key role to play in ensuring students graduate with industry-ready skills.
Mr. Shaw also reiterated PHDCCI’s willingness to work closely with academic institutions to co-develop apprenticeship programs tailored to the demands of local industries.
The PHDCCI Kashmir delegation included Himayu Wani, Madeena Mir, Shahid Khan, and Er. Owais Raja, who shared expert insights on curriculum design and skill development pathways relevant to Jammu & Kashmir’s growing tourism and service sectors.
The delegation stressed that bridging the skills gap through practical training opportunities would not only boost employability but also contribute to the broader socio-economic development of the region.
PHDCCI reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with universities in Jammu & Kashmir to implement apprenticeship-driven learning models and support students in gaining meaningful industry exposure.
