Launch Overview
On 16 July 2026, coinciding with World AI Day, the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in Kolkata announced the formation of the Global AI Hospitality Education Council (GAIHEC). The press release states that the council brings together hospitality educators, universities, industry leaders and institutions from more than 60 countries to collectively define the future of artificial intelligence in hospitality, culinary arts and tourism education. GAIHEC is described as the world’s first international council dedicated exclusively to developing responsible, ethical and industry‑focused AI education for hospitality.
Council Objectives and Initiatives
GAIHEC will institutionalise IIHM’s earlier AI initiatives, such as the NamAIste – IIHM Hospitality GPT, by creating curriculum standards, ethical AI guidelines, faculty development programmes, research initiatives and cross‑border academic partnerships. The council’s philosophy, quoted as “High‑Tech. Higher Touch.”, positions AI as an enabler that empowers professionals while preserving the emotional intelligence that defines exceptional hospitality.
Governance Structure
The council operates under a three‑tier governance model. The Governing Board is chaired by IIHM, the Academic Senate represents hospitality and culinary institutions from Young Chef Olympiad member nations, and the Industry & Patron Advisory Board brings together hotel companies, tourism organisations, technology leaders and strategic partners. The governing framework is guided by four founding principles: Human First, AI Empowered; Global Knowledge, Local Impact; Collaboration Over Competition; and Sustainability for Generations.
Membership and Roadmap
Member institutions from countries including Uganda, Nepal, Jordan, Bangladesh and the United Arab Emirates have already been onboarded, with the full 60‑country network to be progressively inducted over the coming months. The council’s roadmap, termed the GAIHEC Roadway to 2027, culminates in the signing of the GAIHEC Global Charter during the Grand Finale of the Young Chef Olympiad on 8 February 2027, establishing the first internationally accepted framework for responsible AI integration in hospitality education.
Statements from Key Figures
Dr. Suborno Bose, Founder and Chief Mentor of IIHM and Indismart Group, emphasized that AI is meant to enhance, not replace, hospitality and that the council will ensure AI becomes a force for innovation while strengthening human values. Prof. David Foskett OBE MBE, Chairman of the International Hospitality Council (IHC), highlighted AI as a tool to better understand customers and maintain the human core of the industry. Anita Mendiratta, Special Advisor to the Secretary‑General of UN Tourism, described AI as a present‑day priority for preparing people for tomorrow’s opportunities. NSN Mohan, Vice President and President‑Elect of SKÅL International, portrayed AI as a bridge between tradition and innovation. Kush Kapoor, CEO of Roseate Hotels & Resorts, noted that thoughtful technology implementation allows hospitality professionals to focus on creating memorable guest experiences. Prof. James Edmunds, Pro Vice‑Chancellor and Dean of the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, University of West London, explained that AI personalises guest journeys, improves efficiencies and supports sustainable operations by removing routine tasks. Chef John Wood, Founder of KitchenCUT, praised the collaboration between AI technology and human expertise as a powerful testament to the sector’s future.
Closing Note
The release concludes by reiterating that while technology may power the future of hospitality, humanity will always define it. (Disclaimer: The press release is provided under an arrangement with PRNewswire; PTI takes no editorial responsibility.)