National, August 2025 — In a significant step towards reshaping hospitality education in the country, Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with A-Star Academy. The agreement was formalized at the historic main building of SPPU in Pune, under the leadership of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Suresh Gosavi, who represented the university. On behalf of A-Star Academy, the MoU was signed by Mr. Romie Dutt, Executive Director of Aamby Valley City and Hotel Sahara Star, and the driving force behind this innovative educational initiative.
This collaboration is set to introduce industry-driven academic programs designed to bridge the longstanding gap between classroom teaching and real-world hospitality practice. The first offering under this alliance will be a three-year Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Hospitality Studies, where SPPU will act as the awarding institution and A-Star Academy will serve as the academic delivery partner. Additional degree, diploma, and certificate programs are also in the pipeline.
A-Star Academy, established by Aamby Valley City and Hotel Sahara Star, has positioned itself as India’s only hotel school built “of the industry, by the industry, and for the industry.” The academy emphasizes immersive learning, giving students exposure to authentic hospitality environments from the very beginning of their academic journey. The curriculum, co-designed and taught by experienced hotel professionals alongside academicians, focuses on blending theory with hands-on application. This ensures graduates not only understand concepts but also acquire operational skills vital for the global hospitality landscape.
The partnership reflects a shared vision between SPPU and A-Star Academy to redefine employability standards in the hospitality sector. By placing experiential learning at the center of its pedagogy, the initiative aims to nurture future leaders equipped with innovation, adaptability, and industry-readiness. Students enrolling in these programs will have the opportunity to learn in real hotel settings, gain practical exposure, and develop competencies aligned with international benchmarks.
With two unique campuses, A-Star Academy offers unparalleled training environments. Its Mumbai campus, located within a sprawling 1 million sq. ft. five-star property, allows day-scholars to experience the workings of a live hotel. Meanwhile, the fully residential campus at Lonavala, spread across 10,000 acres, houses restaurants, boutique hotels, and cafés, giving students an expansive platform to practice, experiment, and excel.
Speaking on the occasion, leaders from both institutions emphasized that this collaboration marks the beginning of a new chapter in hospitality education—where academic excellence converges with real-world experience. The aim is clear: to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also industry-ready from day one.
For more information, interested candidates can contact A-Star Academy at 8657411591/8657411592, email info@astaracademy.in, or visit www.astaracademy.in.
