Diageo India has taken a remarkable step towards inclusivity through its ‘Learning for Life’ programme. In partnership with the Skill Council for Persons with Disabilities (SCPwD), the initiative aims to train and place over 300 students in the Food & Beverage Services sector during FY 2024.
At a recent convocation ceremony held in Noida, 85 students were celebrated for successfully completing the programme. Through this initiative, Diageo India is setting a powerful example for corporate leadership in diversity and inclusion.
In 2023, Diageo India expanded the scope of its Learning for Life programme to focus on empowering Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). This three-month residential training programme, conducted at SCPwD-affiliated centres in Noida and Bengaluru, equips students with essential skills to thrive in the hospitality industry.
Participants receive comprehensive training in food & beverage services, interpersonal skills, employability skills and communication skills. The structured modules prepare them to meet the rigorous demands of the industry, fostering confidence and career readiness.
So far, the programme has successfully trained 200 students, many of whom have found employment through placement partners such as Accor Hotel, Godrej Properties, Lemon Tree Hotel, and Hilton Hotels India. These partnerships signify a collective effort to make the hospitality sector more inclusive and equitable.
Speaking at the ceremony, Devashish Dasgupta, director-corporate relations, Diageo India, emphasised the significance of the initiative, saying, “Our partnership with SCPwD underscores our commitment to fostering inclusivity and community empowerment. Through ‘Learning for Life,’ we aim to create meaningful opportunities for PwDs and contribute to a more equitable hospitality industry.”
The programme’s impact is reflected in the stories of its beneficiaries. Sharing his real-life story, Rohit Rana, a participant, shared his journey and said, “The programme gave me the skills and confidence I needed to succeed. Today, I’m excited about starting my career in hospitality.”
