Tourism: A change of course

Thomas Cook India’s Centre of Learning is doing just that. This year will see newer modules and a consolidation of the old.

An industry that is so dynamic in nature demands training that is constantly evolving as well. The Centre of Learning, a division of Thomas Cook India, was originally conceptualised to feed its internal requirements. As a result, it would introduce a new course or syllabus whenever the demand for it emerged in the head office.

It continues to do this even today, albeit not just for the company but for the industry as a whole. Smeeta Gulvady, VP & Head of Centre of Learning, says, “This year, we have consolidated the curriculum as well as added modules.”

What’s new

The new modules include newer destinations. “The new batch will receive classroom training on Israel by the National Israel Training Office in India. This is the first time that this training has been conducted outside Israel. We have a plan of action for Phase Two as well,” Gulvady reveals. The centre had conducted the same training for about 400 agents panIndia earlier this year. Another new destination that the students will learn about is South Africa. “We have now tied up with South African Tourism to conduct the SA Specialist Online program for our students from this year. Yes, they are pretty smart!” she adds. Starwood Pro is another new module that will be added.

Talking about the existing modules, Gulvady says that the centre tries to incorporate as many different types of tourism as possible. “This is why we have training on cruises by Royal Caribbean. Students need to know more than ticketing, and cruising is something that is coming up in India. We believe that we need to work closely with the industry to mould the future torchbearers.”