Vice Chancellor Dr. Moeed Yusuf delivered an inspiring welcome address, encouraging students to dream big and seize the opportunities available at BNU. Dr. Ijaz, Head of the Department of Management Studies, shared practical advice on navigating academic challenges, while Dr. Atif Hassan, Head of Hospitality Management, motivated the students to strive for excellence in their respective fields. The session also featured interactive ice-breaking activities, allowing students to connect with one another and the faculty. The day concluded with refreshments, setting a positive and exciting tone for the new semester.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Mr. Haseeb Gardezi, Executive Director, Hospitality and Education Division at Hashoo Group, Mr. Azam Jamil, former Minister of State and current Chief Hospitality Officer at Ambiance Hotels & Resorts, Mr. Faisal Naeem Khan, Director Hashoo School of Hospitality Management, Dr. Moeed Yusuf, Vice Chancellor, BNU, Mr. Zaeem Yaqoob Khan, Executive Director, Student Affairs and External Relations at BNU, and Prof. Dr. Atif Hassan, Head of the Department of Hospitality Management at BNU. Their speeches highlighted the promising career opportunities in the hospitality industry and the comprehensive education that BNU and HSHM are committed to providing. The event was well-attended by representatives from BNU, HSHM, and Pearl Continental, making it an engaging and informative session for all.
Dr. Atif's session was both informative and interactive, allowing participants to delve into real-life negotiation scenarios and enhance their skills through practical exercises. His expertise and approach left a lasting impact, equipping attendees with valuable tools for effective negotiation in their professional lives.
Prof. Dr. Atif Hassan, the founding Head of the Department of Hospitality Management at BNU, represented the university with distinction. He inaugurated the conference by ceremoniously lighting the traditional oil lamp alongside other keynote speakers and the conference chairperson. In addition to this honor, Dr. Atif Hassan served as an Evaluator for various technical sessions and provided valuable feedback on the research presented. ICOHT 2024 attracted delegates from twenty different nationalities, both in person and online. The conference featured vibrant interactions, inspiring sessions, engaging discussions, and excellent networking opportunities. In collaboration with the Hashoo School of Hospitality Management, BNU's Department of Hospitality Management remains dedicated to excellence in teaching and research. As an Invited Distinguished Speaker, Prof. Dr. Atif Hassan delivered a compelling presentation on "Disruptive Innovation in the Hospitality & Tourism Industry." He discussed the concept of disruptive innovation, shared success stories of industry disruptions, and highlighted innovative transformations within the sector. At the conclusion of his address, Dr. Atif Hassan was honored with a plaque of recognition by the conference chair, further cementing BNU's contribution to the global hospitality and tourism discourse.