UNWTO Chief Calls for Tourism Subject in Schools to Ready Future Generations
During the recent “Global Education Forum” held alongside the UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh, Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili advocated for bringing tourism into classrooms worldwide. He highlighted the immense value of establishing tourism education programs starting from primary schools to universities as a way to prepare future generations for this vital global industry.
“By teaching tourism skills and knowledge early on, we can build passion and talent development from a young age,” said Pololikashvili. He noted how tourism employs 1 in 10 people globally, making it critical to formally integrate the subject into mainstream education.
Pololikashvili detailed several key benefits of institutionalizing tourism in curricula. Students would gain awareness of tourism’s socio-economic significance and diverse career paths. Hands-on learning could introduce core skills like hospitality, cultural fluency, environmental stewardship and business operations. Practical training opportunities would also develop specialized expertise.
“Tourism degrees and vocational programs are flourishing. Now we need to kindle interest from an early stage,” Pololikashvili emphasized. Introducing tourism in grade schools can positively shape attitudes and aspirations.
The Secretary-General acknowledged hurdles in formalizing new subjects but urged viewing this as an urgent investment. He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s efforts in mandating tourism education in both private and public schools, as well as opening dedicated tourism academies.
The Gulf country aligns with the UNWTO’s own priorities in implementing its Roadmap for Talent Development. The ambitious plan aims to equip new generations with the mindset and competencies to thrive in tourism.
Other Middle East nations like Qatar and the UAE are also championing youth tourism training. “This kind of future-forward thinking is what our sector needs,” stated Pololikashvili.
As tourism rebounds post-pandemic, preparing the workforce is imperative. Students inspired today can become industry trailblazers tomorrow. Pololikashvili concluded with a call to action: “Our opportunity is now to shape tourism education for coming decades.”
