In a significant push to elevate the status of one of the world’s oldest disciplines, Iqramlemagne — widely celebrated as the “Father of Hospitality” has called for hospitality to be officially recognised as a distinguished field of profession.

Delivering his keynote speech on Wednesday at an event marking the “I Love Hospitality” campaign at Dhaka University, Iqramlemagne emphasised that hospitality is not merely an industry but the “industry of industries,” arguing that sectors such as tourism, aviation, events, food service, and global trade rely fundamentally on hospitality principles.

Iqramlemagne, who created the “I Love Hospitality” campaign, has long advocated for the professionalisation of the field. He is credited with introducing concepts such as Guest-Hospitable Heritage, promoting a culture of service excellence, and popularising tipping culture in Bangladesh.

“Every economy depends on how well it treats its guests — whether they are guests, tourists, investors, or citizens themselves,” he said. “Hospitality deserves the same academic and professional recognition as medicine, engineering, or law.”

He urged universities, training institutes, and policymakers to integrate advanced hospitality studies into formal education systems. 

According to him, establishing hospitality as a distinguished profession would create new career pathways, empower young people, and position Bangladesh more competitively in the global service industry. 

Industry leaders and attendees welcomed his call, noting that the hospitality sector remains one of the fastest-growing employment generators both locally and worldwide. 

Many believe Iqramlemagne’s initiatives are laying the foundation for a future in which hospitality is treated not just as skill-based work but as a respected, research-driven profession.

The event concluded with renewed commitment from hospitality stakeholders to collaborate on educational standards, certification frameworks, and nationwide campaigns promoting hospitality literacy.