Partners with HIHMT and SPT Clarks Inn Suites to Boost Access to Global Education Opportunities
Munish Sood
Mandi
In a significant initiative to bring world-class education closer to the youth of Himachal Pradesh, Desh Bhagat University (DBU), Punjab — a NAAC A+ accredited institution — inaugurated its new Information and Counselling Centre (ICC) at SPT Clarks Inn Suites, Pandoh, Mandi. The centre has been established in collaboration with HIHMT Pandoh, marking DBU’s strategic expansion into Himachal’s education landscape.
The newly launched centre aims to act as a one-stop hub for students and professionals exploring Regular Degree Programs, Online Courses, Open & Distance Learning (ODL), and DBU Americas International Programs, offering flexibility and global exposure under one roof.
During the launch event, Dr. Harsh Sadawarti, Vice Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University, along with Er. Arun Malik, Director of Operations at Desh Bhagat University Americas, Mr. Satpal Thakur, Chairman of SPT Clarks Inn Suites, and Mr. Vijay Sonam, Educationist, jointly inaugurated the centre.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sadawarti highlighted that DBU’s expansion to Himachal aims to create an accessible, inclusive, and industry-aligned education ecosystem for students seeking quality learning and career advancement. “We are committed to ensuring that students in the region can access flexible education pathways — from regular programs to international collaborations — without leaving their hometowns,” he said.
The DBU Centre of Excellence, established within the same premises, will also serve as a training and skill development hub for learners in Hotel Management, Hospitality, and Tourism, offering practical training, internships, and placement opportunities through tie-ups with industry leaders.
Er. Arun Malik, speaking about DBU’s global vision, said, “Equipped with modern infrastructure and expert counsellors, the Pandoh centre will guide students through every stage of their academic journey — from program selection and admissions to career planning and global placement opportunities.”
He further emphasized DBU’s commitment to inclusion through a wide array of scholarship initiatives, including those for meritorious students, sportspersons, students with disabilities, and economically weaker sections. The Shakti Scholarship, exclusively designed for girl students, aims to empower women “from the classroom to the boardroom.”
Echoing the vision, Educationist Vijay Sonam remarked, “Our goal is to empower every learner in the region with the right tools, skills, and direction. DBU ICC Pandoh ensures that modern, globally relevant education is now accessible right at the doorstep of Himachal’s youth.”
Mr. Satpal Thakur, Chairman of SPT Clarks Inn Suites, lauded the initiative, noting that the collaboration will create new avenues for local youth in hospitality and tourism, fostering employability, entrepreneurship, and long-term career growth.
The DBU Information and Counselling Centre at Pandoh is now open to the public and welcomes walk-ins and appointments for academic consultations, course guidance, and scholarship support.
