Dr. Narendra Kumar Valaboju is the Principal of Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management. He holds a Ph.D. in Human Resource Management Practices from JNTU, Hyderabad. He has over 34 years of teaching and industry experience.

Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management

What motivated you to pursue a career in hotel management education and become a principal?

My journey into hotel management education was a natural progression, fuelled by a deep-passion for both the hospitality industry and education. With over 35 years of experience in the hotel industry, I realized the importance of nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals. My desire to share practical insights, and industry knowledge, and foster a love for the field led me to transition into academia. Becoming a principal at Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management was a conscious decision driven by the vision to create a dynamic learning environment that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. I believe that education should extend beyond textbooks, and the role of a principal is pivotal in shaping an institution that prepares students not just for jobs but for successful career in the ever-evolving world of hospitality.

How do you envision the role of the principal in Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management? What is your leadership style?

As a principal, my vision is to be a facilitator and mentor, fostering an environment where innovation, creativity, and excellence thrive. I believe in a collaborative leadership style that encourages open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making. By involving faculty, staff, and students in the decision-making process, we create a sense of ownership and commitment to the college’s success. My leadership style is grounded in empathy and understanding. I recognize the diverse talents and strengths within the institution and strive to provide a platform for everyone to contribute meaningfully. 

What strategies do you employ to ensure the smooth functioning of college and to maintain a positive learning environment?

To ensure the smooth functioning of the college, I emphasize effective communication, transparency, and proactive problem-solving. Regular faculty meetings, feedback sessions, and collaboration with administrative staff help address any issues promptly. A positive learning environment is nurtured through the creation of student-centric programs, extracurricular activities, and a focus on holistic development. I encourage a culture of continuous improvement, where feedback from students and faculty is used to enhance teaching methodologies and curriculum. By fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect, we create an atmosphere conducive to learning, personal growth, and the development of essential skills required for success in the hospitality industry.

How do you stay updated with the latest industry trends and developments in hotel management? How do you incorporate them into the college curriculum?

Staying abreast of industry trends is essential in preparing students for the dynamic landscape of the hospitality sector. I maintain active involvement in industry forums, participate in conferences, and engage with professionals to stay informed about emerging trends. Additionally, our faculty is encouraged to attend workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance their industry knowledge. Incorporating these trends into the curriculum is a collaborative effort. Regular curriculum reviews, industry expert guest lectures, and partnerships with leading hospitality organizations ensure that our courses remain relevant and reflect the current needs of the industry. This approach equips our students with the latest skills and knowledge, making them industry-ready upon graduation.

What are the primary challenges faced by hotel management education today? How do you address them?

Hotel management education faces challenges such as evolving industry demands, technological advancements, and the need for a more diverse skill set among graduates. To address these challenges, we have implemented a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes not only core hospitality principles but also incorporates emerging trends, technology integration, and soft skills development. Creating strong industry partnerships and internship programs is another strategy to bridge the gap between academia and industry expectations. This ensures that our graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the real world. Additionally, fostering a culture of adaptability and continuous learning equips our students to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality sector.

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How do you engage with the industry and foster strong relationships with hoteliers and hospitality organizations?

Building and sustaining strong relationships with the industry is fundamental to the success of our students. I actively engage with hoteliers and hospitality organizations through regular industry meet-ups, networking events, and collaborative projects. These interactions not only provide insights into industry expectations but also open avenues for internships, placements, and guest lectures. Our college maintains an advisory board comprising industry experts who provide valuable guidance on curriculum development and industry-relevant skills. This collaborative approach ensures that our programs align with industry needs and that our students have access to a network of professionals who can contribute to their career development.

How do you assess the effectiveness of the curriculum and teaching methods in preparing students for a career in the hotel management industry?

Assessing the effectiveness of the curriculum is an ongoing process that involves feedback from students, faculty, and industry partners. Regular surveys, focus group discussions, and alumni feedback provide valuable insights into the strengths and areas for improvement. We also conduct periodic reviews of course outcomes and benchmark against industry standards. Teaching methods are assessed through classroom observations, peer evaluations, and student performance. Embracing technology and innovative teaching methodologies is a priority, ensuring that our students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for the challenges of the industry. The success of our graduates in securing meaningful employment and positive feedback from industry partners are key indicators of the curriculum’s effectiveness.

What measures do you take to ensure student success, including placement opportunities and internships?

Ensuring student success is at the core of our mission. We have established a dedicated placement cell that works closely with industry partners to secure internship and placement opportunities for our students. The placement cell organizes career fairs, networking events, and mock interviews to enhance students’ employability skills. Internship programs are a crucial component of our curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to real-world scenarios. We maintain strong connections with a wide network of hotels, resorts, and hospitality establishments to facilitate meaningful internship opportunities. Additionally, we collaborate with industry professionals to conduct workshops on resume building, interview skills, and career guidance.

How do you encourage diversity, inclusion, and equality within the college campus?

Creating a culture of diversity, inclusion, and equality is a priority for us. We promote diversity through admissions policies that encourage students from various backgrounds to join our programs. Our faculty recruitment process is also designed to ensure a diverse and inclusive teaching staff. To foster equality, we provide equal opportunities for all students, irrespective of gender, background, or socio-economic status. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, cultural exchange events, and awareness campaigns contribute to building a campus environment that celebrates differences and promotes mutual respect. Regular workshops on diversity and inclusion are conducted for both students and faculty, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity as a strength. By instilling these values, we aim to prepare our students for the global and diverse nature of the hospitality industry.

Can you share your vision for the future of the Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management and how do you plan to achieve it?

My vision for the future of Shri Shakti College of Hotel Management is centered on excellence, innovation, and global recognition. I envision the college as a catalyst for positive change in the hospitality industry.