MoU signing between Indian Culinary Forum, New Delhi and International Institute of Gastronomy, Nepal

The MoU aims to strengthen academic and professional ties between IIG and ICF by creating opportunities for students and faculty to gain international exposure, share knowledge, and develop skills aligned with global culinary standards. Together, both institutions seek to enhance learning outcomes, foster innovation, and contribute to the growth of the culinary and hospitality sectors in Nepal and India.

Position the event as a first of its kind landmark collaboration between India and Nepal in culinary education. Emphasize that ICF (India’s premier chef association) has chosen IIG (Nepal’s premier culinary institute) as its exclusive partner in Nepal

IIG’s strength - IIG is Nepal’s reputed international-standard culinary school, delivering CTH-accredited diploma programs and curriculum that align with global hospitality requirements. Unlike many institutions that act only as observers of industry trends, IIG positions itself at the forefront of change, taking practical initiatives to close gaps between classroom learning and real-world expectations.

Through industrial exposure, internships, and collaborations with chefs, suppliers, and hospitality networks, IIG ensures its students graduate not only with skills but also with professional readiness. The MoU with ICF reflects IIG’s philosophy of driving action and opportunities for students, not just discussions.

• What the MOU covers?
  - Access to ICF competitions, festivals, and professional events in India.
  - Guest lectures, masterclasses, and faculty exchanges to expose IIG students to top culinary talent.
  - Stronger connections with Indian hospitality suppliers and employers.
  - Joint culinary research, cultural food exchange, and regional industry integration.

• Impact for Nepal & South Asia

• Strengthens Nepal’s standing as an emerging hub for culinary education and skilled professionals.
• IIG students will benefit from industrial-level exposure in India while also showcasing Nepal’s talent on international platforms
• Aims to nurture employability and global career pathways for young chefs by ensuring their training is industry-relevant and internationally accredited.

“The signing of this MoU between ICF and IIG is more than a formal agreement — it’s a bridge between two rich culinary cultures. Together, we’re not only empowering young chefs through shared knowledge and training, but also preserving and promoting the diverse gastronomic traditions of India and Nepal on a global platform."

Chef Vivek Saggar, General Secretary, ICF, New Delhi

“At IIG, we do not just observe the gaps between culinary training and industry requirements, we take initiatives to close them. Our CTH-accredited programs, combined with international collaborations like this MoU with ICF, provide students with unmatched exposure and opportunities to become globally competitive culinary professionals".

Sharon Adhikari, CEO, IIG Nepal

Together, ICF and IIG will empower young chefs with practical, industry-relevant training, global-standard curriculum, and real-world opportunities that prepare them to excel anywhere in the world.