HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
In a groundbreaking initiative to transform the landscape of vocational education and inclusivity in India, the British Columbia College of Management (BCCM) proudly announces the launch of its Special Education Needs (SEN) program. As the first hospitality and tourism management college in the country to offer specialized education for students with disabilities, BCCM is set to create a significant impact by bridging the gap between industry needs and skilled manpower.
Despite the significant number of children with disabilities in India, UNESCO estimates that 78.64 lakh children with special needs do not attend any college. Statistics highlight that only 1.2% to 1.7% of these individuals have access to formal vocational training, underscoring the critical need for inclusive educational initiatives. In response, BCCM’s SEN program aims to equip these students with the skills and qualifications necessary to thrive in the hospitality and tourism sectors, fostering self-reliance and reducing familial dependency.
Dedicated Faculty: BCCM will employ specialized educators proficient in Braille, sign language, and autism spectrum support, alongside industry experts in hospitality and tourism, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment.
Accessible Infrastructure: The college facilities will include lifts, ramps, and specialized washrooms to cater to the needs of students with physical disabilities.
Flexible Learning: Recognizing the diverse mobility limitations of students, BCCM will offer online courses, providing flexible learning options.
Tailored Curriculum: The academic program will be redesigned with input from experts to meet the specific needs of students with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and effective educational experience.
Expected Outcomes
Employment Readiness: Graduates will be equipped with the skills and qualifications required to secure employment in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Empowerment: This initiative will empower a historically underserved population, contributing to a more inclusive society and enhancing the overall literacy and labor force participation rates among individuals with disabilities.
“By launching the SEN program, BCCM is not only addressing a critical educational gap but also paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society,” said Deepak Jha, MD & CEO, BCCM. “We are committed to providing a platform where students with disabilities can thrive, gain independence, and contribute meaningfully to the hospitality industry.”
This initiative aligns with the broader social corporate responsibility efforts of leading hotel brands, who have acknowledged the challenge of finding skilled employees with disabilities. BCCM’s program promises to provide the necessary training and support to meet this industry demand.
