Exploring the Future of Hospitality: Guest Lecture on AI and Technology

As the hospitality industry rapidly evolves with the integration of digital technologies, understanding the role of Artificial Intelligence, data, and automation has become essential for future professionals. Keeping this vision in mind, the Department of BBA – Hospitality and Event Management (BBA-HEM), PES University, organized an expert guest lecture on “AI and Technology in the Hospitality Industry” on March 26, 2026.

The session was held at Tech Park, Room E-614, from 10:40 a.m. to 11:40 a.m., and witnessed the active participation of second- and fourth-semester BBA-HEM students, with an audience strength of around 40 students.

Industry Insights from a Global Leader
The expert talk was delivered by Mr. Reeves Mathews, Global Vice President – Customer Support & Operations at IDS Next, a leading technology solutions provider for the hospitality industry. Drawing from his extensive industry experience, the speaker offered students a practical and forward-looking perspective on how technology is reshaping hotel operations worldwide.

Key Themes and Takeaways
The session covered several contemporary and highly relevant topics, including

• Evolution of Technology in Hotels
  An overview of how hospitality operations have transitioned from manual processes to integrated digital ecosystems.
   
• AI in Guest Experiences
  Insights into how artificial intelligence enhances personalization, customer engagement, and service efficiency.
   
• Emerging Technologies in the Hospitality Industry
  Discussion on smart systems, automation, cloud-based PMS, and data-driven decision-making.
   
• DPDP (Digital Personal Data Protection) Compliance
  An introduction to data privacy regulations, emphasizing the importance of ethical data handling and compliance in hospitality operations.

Through real-world examples and practical explanations, the speaker bridged the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, helping students connect theory with application.

Learning Outcomes for Students
The guest lecture proved to be highly informative and career-oriented. Students gained

• A clear understanding of the scope and importance of technology integration in modern hotels
• Familiarity with key technology concepts and their applications in hospitality operations
• Awareness of data privacy rules and their growing relevance in guest data management

A Step Towards Industry-Ready Education
The session successfully enriched students’ understanding of the technological landscape of the hospitality sector and highlighted the skills required to thrive in a digital-first environment. Such expert interactions reflect PES University’s continued commitment to industry-integrated learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for the future of hospitality and service management.