EHL’s Kanav Mata says hospitality education expanding beyond hotels and restaurants in April 2026 statement

Kanav Mata of EHL said in April 2026 that hospitality education is no longer limited to hotels and restaurants, highlighting a shift toward broader career pathways across sectors such as healthcare, real estate and luxury services, as the industry adapts to changing workforce demands and evolving service models globally.

Shift in hospitality education scope

Mata stated that hospitality education has expanded significantly in recent years, moving beyond its traditional focus on hotel operations and food service. He said institutions are now preparing students for roles in multiple industries where service management and customer experience are critical.

According to Mata, this shift reflects changes in how hospitality skills are being applied across sectors, including senior living, co-living, travel services and corporate environments. He added that educational programs are being redesigned to align with these broader applications.

Industry demand driving curriculum changes

Mata said that growing demand for service-oriented professionals has led to curriculum updates in hospitality schools. He noted that employers are increasingly seeking graduates with skills in operations management, customer engagement and business strategy beyond traditional hotel roles.

He added that training now includes exposure to technology, sustainability practices and cross-industry operations. Institutions are incorporating these elements into coursework to ensure graduates remain relevant in a changing job market.

Expansion into non-traditional sectors

Hospitality graduates are finding opportunities in sectors such as healthcare services, luxury retail, aviation and real estate, Mata said. He noted that these industries require similar service standards and operational efficiency as hotels.

Mata added that companies in these sectors are actively recruiting hospitality-trained professionals due to their customer-centric approach and operational discipline. This trend has contributed to diversification in career outcomes for students.

Global perspective on hospitality careers

Mata said that the globalization of the hospitality industry has further broadened opportunities for graduates. He noted that international exposure and cross-cultural training are becoming key components of hospitality education programs.

He added that institutions are forming partnerships with global companies to provide internships and placement opportunities across different markets. These collaborations aim to enhance practical learning and industry readiness.

Institutional response and training models

EHL and similar institutions are adapting their training models to reflect the expanded scope of hospitality careers, Mata said. He noted that programs now emphasize leadership, adaptability and service innovation alongside core operational skills.

He added that experiential learning remains a central component, with students gaining hands-on experience in both traditional and non-traditional environments. This approach is intended to prepare graduates for diverse roles.

Current status

As of April 2026, hospitality education providers continue to update curricula and expand partnerships to align with industry demand, with institutions like EHL focusing on preparing graduates for a wider range of service-oriented careers beyond hotels and restaurants.