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The graduation day is a very special occasion not only for the graduates for whom this ceremony is held and their success celebrated, it is also a special occasion that expresses gratitude to everyone who contributed to their success. The graduates prove that they have learnt and are ready to apply that knowledge. As they leave the portals of their institution, they can look back on the work done and see the evidence of great teaching, the new skills learned, and the new passions uncovered. Everyone sits back and savours the long awaited moment to celebrate and pay tribute to the hard work and efforts of the new graduates. Graduation Day is not just a conclusion; it’s a commencement, a launchpad for graduates to pursue their dreams, shape their futures, and make their mark on the world.
Institute profile
The Apeejay Institute of Hospitality was established in the year 2007; it is located at CBD Belapur and shares it’s premises with The Park Navi Mumbai.It is an initiative of the Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd. that operates its collection of Luxury Boutique hotels in India.
The institute offers a 3 years Bachelor Degree programme in Hospitality Studies affiliated to the University of Mumbai, is recognized by the Government of Maharashtra and University Grants Commission. The institute also offers 6 month certificate courses in Basic Food Production and Basic Food and Beverage Service affiliated to the Maharashtra State Board of Skill Vocational Education and Training.
Under the aegis of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, AIH is also the center of learning for Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, the group’s Management Training Programme, Executive Training Programmes, Professional Development Programmes, as well as consultancy projects for the hospitality industry are some of AIH’s additional core activities. Not only academics but extra-curricular activities are also given equal impetus. Students have the advantage of getting hands-on operational training at The Park, Navi Mumbai, doing their internship from any of the Park properties or associated organizations and take up careers with the Park Hotels as well as other hotels.
The Ceremony
The 15th batch graduated from the portals of the AIH(Apeejay Institute of Hospitality) on 26th March 2024 in a spectacular ceremony held at The Park Navi Mumbai. Chief Guest for the ceremony was Ms. Priya Paul, Chairperson, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd. Dr. Harsha Mehta, Governing Council Member; Principal Dr. Bhuvan G.M. werethe dignitaries on the dias. Also present at the event were Ms. Sujata Guin Sr. VP and CHRO, Apeejay Surrendra Park hotels Ltd, Mr. Yazad Marfatia, Corporate Director & Head of Sales and Marketing, ASPHL. Mr. Rahul Makhija, General Manager, The Park Navi Mumbai and Mr. Subhabrata Roy, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott, Navi Mumbai.
The special invitees were parents of final year students, AIH alumni, Media, Hotel General Managers, Human Resources and Training Managers, Team from The Park Navi Mumbai and the Management Committee members.
The programme commenced at 12 pm. Dr. Laxmi Todiwan, was the Master of Ceremonies. She welcomed the guests and thanked everyone present for joining AIH on its special day in celebrating the graduates. The program was crisp and formal,Vice Principal Mr. Shirish Bokde ensured the smooth conduct of the entire programme offering logistic and tech support. Principal Dr. Bhuvan G.M presented the annual report; that took the audience through all the activities and events of the academic year 2023– 24.
It is said that true happiness involves the full use of one’s power and talents, reinstating this fact was the final year student representative Ms. Meghna Mukherjee, who shared experiences of her journey at AIH, which was received with cheer and applause by all present.
Then Chief Guest Ms. Priya Paul, in her keynote addresscongratulated the graduating batch and expressed her delight on the achievements of AIH saying that it was a wonderful day to reach and that she was particularly proud that this was the 15th graduating class out of AIH.
She added that AIH was conceived as an institution whose vision was to build Leadership Through Knowledge. To create a constant learning environment where students got to develop their ideas whether to work in a corporate setup, have a startup or get into entrepreneurship. Ms. Paul emphasized that Hospitality and Tourism industry was growing rapidly and had tremendous opportunities.
One should be open to continuous learning; the new graduates should use their skills and education to reach their highest potential. They must find and follow their passions. They must have the right attitude, temper, personality traits and be extremely committed. The audience loved her talk; specifically the advice that she had for the young graduates.
It was time then to confer the Jit Paul Gold Medal and the Surrendra Paul Gold Medal instituted in memory of the founders Mr. Jit Paul and Mr. Surrendra Paul. The gold medals are real gold, 24 carets, 15 gms each but the honour and value that they carry with them is priceless and something the winners will cherish all through their lives. Ms. Priya Paul awarded gold medals to the winners. Jit Paul Gold medal is awarded to the graduating student who is an all rounder with the best attitude and values; Ms. Shalmali Kulkarni won this award, whereas Ms. Urmila Sharma was the winner of the Surrendra Paul Gold medal awarded to the graduating student for academic excellence.
Ms. Paul along with the Principal Dr. Bhuvan and Dr. Harsha Mehta distributed the course completion certificates to the graduating batch. The graduates then, took the oath lead by the Master of Ceremonies; this was in full academic regalia, students wearing their graduation robes and hats, holding the oath cards in one hand and the candles lit by their faculty members signifying the transference of knowledge; on the other. It was indeed a sight to behold.
The programme concluded with the national anthem sung by all present. The faculty and students then joined the guests for a lavish lunch, at The Park, Navi Mumbai. The Hotel kitchen team laid an elaborate buffet, showcasing the best from their menu.
To the class of 2024, the message from the Master of Ceremonies resounded: “As you embark on your journey, remember that true fulfillment lies in the impact you make on others’ lives. Your unique talents and passions are your tools to effect positive change in the world, leaving a legacy of kindness, empathy, and selflessness”.
