UN Tourism Leads Executive Training on Rural Development in Asia-Pacific

As part of its focus on rural development, UN Tourism has concluded an executive training session for sector leaders from across the Asia and the Pacific region.

(IN SHORT) UN Tourism held an executive training session in Brunei for sector leaders from Asia and the Pacific, focusing on rural tourism development. The event aimed to enhance strategic planning, product development, and sustainable tourism practices. The training supports UN Tourism’s goal of fostering sustainable tourism and empowering rural communities through its Tourism for Rural Development Programme.

(PRESS RELEASE) Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, 2024-Aug-7 — /Travel PR News/ — UN Tourism has concluded an executive training session aimed at enhancing rural development through tourism across the Asia-Pacific region. The two-day event, titled ‘Practical Approach to Strategy and Product Development,’ was held from 5-6 August 2024 and brought together officials responsible for rural tourism strategy and product development from National Tourism Authorities (NTAs) and National Tourism Organizations (NTOs).

Empowering Tourism Leaders

In response to the growing demand for nature-based activities and rural tourism, the training focused on equipping sector leaders with the skills needed to develop, implement, and measure effective rural tourism strategies. The program provided practical tools, including matrices, models, and indicators, complemented by best practices, case studies, and applied exercises. The training aimed to enhance participants’ abilities to create, develop, and market tourism products and destinations on both national and international levels.

The event saw participation from over 33 representatives from 8 Member States. Key topics covered included strategic planning, product development, sustainable tourism practices, and community-based tourism. A field trip was also organized to allow participants to apply their learning in real-world contexts, reinforcing the training objectives and enhancing their practical understanding.

Broad Participation and Practical Learning

Sandra Carvao, Director of Market Intelligence, Policies, and Competitiveness at UN Tourism, emphasized the significance of the training: “This training, part of our Tourism for Rural Development Programme, underscores our commitment to enhancing rural development through effective tourism strategies and innovative approaches. By upskilling national tourism administrations, we are advancing our mission to foster sustainable tourism and support rural communities.”

Harry Hwang, Director of the Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific at UN Tourism, added: “This executive training is a vital step in equipping our Member States in the Asia-Pacific region with the necessary skills and knowledge to develop sustainable and resilient rural tourism strategies. By investing in the capacities of our tourism officials, we are fostering inclusive growth and empowering rural communities across the region.”

Salinah Salleh, Acting Director of the Tourism Development Department from Brunei Darussalam, highlighted the collaborative effort: “This training programme exemplifies Brunei Darussalam’s commitment, alongside UN Tourism, to advancing rural tourism development across the Asia-Pacific region. It underscores our dedication to providing robust support and resources to Member States, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth within our communities.”

UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme

The UN Tourism for Rural Development Programme aims to make tourism a driver of rural development and well-being. It focuses on valuing and safeguarding rural territories, knowledge systems, natural and cultural diversity, and local values. The program promotes innovative and transformative approaches to tourism development in rural destinations, contributing to economic, social, and environmental sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In May 2023, UN Tourism hosted a similar executive training for the Middle East at its Regional Office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, further demonstrating its commitment to rural development through tourism across different regions.

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UNWTO Communications Department
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Source: UNWTO

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