by Leo D’Souza for BIS Mumbai

"Everything is good if it's made of chocolate." - Jo Brand

80 dedicated and enthusiastic students from Don Bosco Junior College, Yerwada, attended a chocolate-making workshop on Saturday, 10th August 2024, at the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) Campus in Viman Nagar, Pune. The trainee students extended a grand and traditional greeting to the staff and students. Mr. Tamal Das, the regional coordinator, welcomed everyone and shared information about the workshop. Mr. Rupinder Singh Khurana (FIIHM), Campus Director, introduced the IIHM team and explained the key distinction between hospitality and hotel management. He advised the students on various courses and career options, encouraging them to pursue their passions.

In addition to seeing a range of chocolate brands, the students received a special presentation on chocolate and its history. The students were inspired by Chefs Vandana Patel and Udir Biswas' lively and interactive chocolate-making workshop. The IIHM team then discussed the various types of chocolate and their constituents, including dark chocolate, white chocolate, and milk chocolate. Students watched as various techniques and procedures for creating handcrafted chocolates were demonstrated. Students enthusiastically made chocolate bars, truffles, fudge, flavoured chocolate balls, and other delectable treats. They had fun decorating cookies and cupcakes with chocolate drizzles, swirls, and other lovely decorations for various festive occasions. 

The IIHM team held an interesting quiz, and several students won prizes, making the workshop even more enjoyable. The students were then invited to taste the sweet confections they had prepared and to experience the joy of chocolate making. Later, the students were given a brief tour of the IIHM campus, including the layout of the Five Star Hotel, bakery, and mega kitchen, which was overseen by Mr Kunal Mhetre, the Head of F&B, and Mr Jugal Bhatia, the F&B Faculty. The atmosphere of the place captivated the students. The head girl, Felicita Nancy, and the head boy, Amos Sakhare, presented a melodious vote of thanks. The IIHM crew was overcome with emotion as they heard the heartfelt song of appreciation. All students were presented with certificates as a token of appreciation for their enthusiastic participation in the workshop. Sir Leo D’Souza thanked the team for their warm welcome and kind hospitality.

The chocolate-making workshop and campus visit made an indelible impression on the students. They relished the lovely experience. Students learnt about hospitality and hotel management as emerging career paths. Students undoubtedly look forward to such out-of-classroom experiences that enrich their learning experience.