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The talent crunch in the hospitality industry is well-known and the sector has begun addressing this challenge. A significant issue for individuals aspiring to join the hospitality industry is that formal education has not kept pace with the rapid developments in the sector. This gap has led to a skill shortage, hindering the industry's growth.

Speaking to ET HospitalityWorld, our Vice President and Business Head, Dhriti Prasanna Mahanta, emphasized that the education system's stagnation is a key reason why the hospitality sector, among others, struggles to find talent with relevant skills. He noted that the hospitality industry is often reluctant to hire talent through various skilling programs.

Apprenticeships in the Hospitality industry

Dhriti highlighted that companies focusing on developing internal talent through apprenticeships and skill development programs have successfully created a sustainable and productive workforce. “Today, I work with one of the largest hotel chains in India, where we are working with more than 1,200 people. Once they complete the apprenticeship program, around 75% are absorbed by the company,” he said.

“In the last 10 years, we have enrolled and deployed more than nine lakh people through skilling programs. Our absorption rate for those who completed the program is over 80%, with a wage premium of 33%,” Mahanta added, noting that about 15% of these were in hospitality and ancillary services.

Under the Apprenticeship Act, there are 14 job roles specifically tailored to the hospitality industry. Apprenticeships in the hospitality industry will help businesses build a future-ready workforce capable of meeting the growing demands. Numerous employers in the sector have already begun to engage apprentices to cultivate a skilled talent pool. According to our latest data, approximately 84% of employers currently working with apprentices in the sector have expressed their interest to increase their apprentice intake.

In the next few years, the Hospitality sector is expected to add 1 million jobs

At TeamLease, we have collaborated with numerous organizations in the hospitality industry, ranging from multinational beverage outlets and pizza delivery companies to restaurants and hotels. Our programs span from 6 to 36 months or more. Individuals enrolled in these programs are placed in different roles depending on their National Skill Qualification Framework. During their training, they gain experience in various settings, including hotels, restaurants, and QSR outlets.

Through these initiatives, we aim to bridge the skill gap in the hospitality industry, ensuring a steady supply of well-trained professionals ready to meet the sector's evolving demands.

You can read the full article in ET HospitalityWorld.

Interested to know how our apprenticeship program can help your business? Contact us