In a landmark development for vocational education in the region, the Skillbridge Institute has officially introduced a three-year Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc) degree course in hospitality management. This initiative, unveiled at a press conference held at the Ukhrul Press Club in Winotang, marks the first time such a degree program is being offered within the district.
Empowering local talent
Since its inception in January 2026, Skillbridge Institute has established itself as a vital hub for job-oriented training. According to Director Yaosangmi Lungleng, the institute has already successfully trained over 50 students, facilitating their placement in diverse professional roles across India.
The launch of the B.Voc program is a strategic expansion of the institute’s mission to provide high-quality education and career pathways. The course is being conducted in formal collaboration with Lingayas Vidyapeeth University. Lungleng emphasized that the degree is fully recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and holds the same academic standing as other bachelor-level degrees under Section 22(3) of the UGC Act, 1956. Currently, Skillbridge operates under the affiliation of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council, offering specialized training in hospitality and spoken English.
Bridging the professional gap
Trainer Elflieda Shingnaisui explained that the decision to introduce the B.Voc program stemmed from an identified need for certified professionals within the local hospitality landscape.
“Many individuals currently working in the hospitality sector possess only short-term training or lack relevant degrees, which significantly limits their prospects for professional advancement and career growth,” Shingnaisui noted. By offering a nationally recognized degree, the institute aims to provide local workers with the credentials necessary to climb the corporate ladder in the competitive hospitality industry.
Flexible learning
The B.Voc program is designed with inclusivity and flexibility in mind. As an online-based initiative, it allows both current industry professionals and fresh students to pursue higher education at their own convenience. The curriculum is meticulously aligned with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) and UGC guidelines, ensuring a balance between theoretical knowledge, practical application, and real-world industry exposure.
The degree program follows a tiered structure:
Year 1: Completion leads to a Diploma (NSQF Level 5).
Year 2: Completion leads to an Advanced Diploma (NSQF Level 6).
Year 3: Completion culminates in the full B.Voc degree (NSQF Level 7).
Eligibility for the program is open to anyone who has successfully passed Class XII from a recognized board.
Beyond Hospitality
In addition to the new degree program, Skillbridge Institute continues to focus on soft-skill development, specifically through its customized spoken English courses. Trainer Elflieda Shingnaisui highlighted that these sessions are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community.
“We customize our spoken English modules for various demographics, ranging from school and college students to graduates, local businesspeople, and homemakers,” she said.
The press conference was also attended by trainer Franky Kapangmi, who joined the institute’s leadership in reaffirming their commitment to bolstering the local workforce. By combining academic rigor with industry-specific skill sets, Skillbridge Institute is positioning itself as a beacon for educational transformation in Ukhrul, ensuring that local learners are not just job-seekers, but industry-ready professionals.
