Gen Z Skills Take the Spotlight at IIHM on World Youth Day
From pitching an idea in just two minutes and reimagining culinary concepts to debating what it takes to survive on a dessert island, students at the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), Bangalore marked World Youth Day 2026 with an engaging mix of activities designed to put Gen Z’s creativity, critical thinking, communication and hospitality skills into action.
Centred around the theme ‘Skill Thrill Gen Z’, the celebrations moved beyond conventional observances to give students opportunities to think on their feet, express ideas, make choices, collaborate and demonstrate how the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals can contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
The celebrations also reflected IIHM’s emphasis on connecting education with the wider hospitality and travel industry through industry associations and collaborations, including its engagement with Skal International Bangalore and Young Skal.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman, International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) says, “Today’s young people are entering a world where knowledge alone will not define success. They need creativity, empathy, adaptability, technological understanding and the confidence to communicate their ideas. Hospitality education has a unique ability to bring all these qualities together. World Youth Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate the potential of our students while encouraging them to become responsible professionals and future leaders who can make a meaningful difference to the industry and society.”
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Sanchari Chowdhury, Director, IIHM Bangalore and Head-South Operations, IIHM and Director, Young Skal, says, “Gen Z learns differently. They want to participate, experiment, question, create and understand how what they learn connects with the real world. At IIHM, we also believe that industry associations and collaborations are important in giving students exposure beyond the classroom."
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"Through platforms such as Young Skal, students get opportunities to connect with the larger hospitality and tourism ecosystem, understand industry perspectives and develop the confidence and networks that will support them as future professionals,” adds Sanchari.
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Mani Megalai, President, Skal International Bangalore says, “The future of travel and hospitality will be shaped by young professionals who combine skills and innovation with a strong sense of responsibility towards people, communities and the planet. Initiatives such as these give students an opportunity to engage with the industry at an early stage, exchange ideas and understand the possibilities that the tourism and hospitality sector offers. Skal International Bangalore is delighted to encourage platforms that help young people build meaningful industry connections and prepare themselves for the future.”