IGNOU and MKITM sign MoU to boost tourism education in UP
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“This MoU will help build a capable workforce not just for the state but also for national and international markets,” said UP's Principal Secretary of Tourism.
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Manyawar Kanshiram Institute of Tourism Management (MKITM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in the field of tourism education, training, and research. This partnership aims towards aligning academic programs with industry needs and enhancing professional skills among students in Uttar Pradesh.
The MoU was signed at a formal ceremony held at the Directorate of Tourism in the presence Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, Prakhar Mishra, Director of Tourism, and Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice Chancellor of IGNOU. Other dignitaries included Dr. Alok Chaubey, Dr. Sonia Sharma (Director, SOTHSM), Prof. Harkirat Bains, Anil Kumar Mishra (Regional Director), Dr. Kirti Vikram (Assistant Director), and senior representatives from MKITM.
At the occasion, Meshram emphasised Uttar Pradesh’s rise as a major domestic tourism hub and underlined the need for skilled professionals to meet the growing demand in the tourism and hospitality sector. “This MoU will help build a capable workforce not just for the state but also for national and international markets,” he stated.
IGNOU Vice Chancellor, Kanjilal said, “Our goal is to offer training that enhances students’ employability and meets industry standards.”
Tourism Director Mishra said that this partnership is a crucial step toward delivering quality and practical education. “It’s a golden opportunity to elevate tourism education in the state and empower both students and the local industry,” he added.
Under the MoU, both institutions have agreed to jointly develop academic programs, ensure quality assurance, and promote vocational education through innovative methods.
The agreement outlines shared responsibilities. IGNOU will design and develop tourism and hospitality programs in the state, form expert committees for course delivery, and manage student evaluation and certification. MKITM will handle program operations, training, infrastructure, practical sessions, and student accommodations. It will also organize academic trips and recommend curriculum updates as needed.
A Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) comprising seven members—four from IGNOU and three from MKITM will oversee the partnership. The committee will be chaired by the IGNOU Vice Chancellor or a nominated official and meet at least twice a year to review progress.
UP Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh welcomed the MoU, said, “This collaboration will open new doors for tourism education and equip our youth with the skills to thrive in this growing industry”