Global Travel & Tourism Partnership Student Conference Unveils Path to a Sustainable Industry Future

KATHMANDU, Nov 24:Dubai, the vibrant and futuristic hub of the United Arab Emirates, recently played host to the Global Travel & Tourism Partnership (GTTP) Student Conference from November 12th to 15th. This year marked the 24th iteration of the annual conference, attracting over 1,000 schools globally to participate in a collaborative effort aimed at shaping the future of the Travel & Tourism industry.

The venue, Holiday Inn, Dubai, set the stage for the culmination of research endeavors by exceptional students who presented innovative strategies to build a resilient workforce for a sustainable future in Travel & Tourism. The conference provided a platform for a diverse cohort of students from around the world to showcase their findings, exchange ideas, and contribute to the evolution of the industry.

At the heart of the conference were the winning GTTP students, selected from various countries, who not only attended but also presented their meticulously crafted research findings. Their focus? Crafting a resilient workforce primed for the challenges and opportunities of a sustainable future within the Travel & Tourism sector.

Supported by key industry players such as IHG Hotels & Resorts, the event extended beyond academic presentations. It included an engaging session introducing attendees to an array of promising career paths within Travel & Tourism. Representatives from renowned organizations including dnata, Amadeus, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Dubai Tourism College shared insights and discussed career opportunities, offering valuable guidance to aspiring students.

Anne Lotter, the Executive Director at GTTP, expressed her enthusiasm for the passion displayed by students and speakers alike. She highlighted the diverse research presented by the students, emphasizing their keen interest in sustainability within companies and the pivotal role of social media in communicating with the younger generation. Lotter emphasized how the conference serves as a global platform for students not only to spotlight tourism in their respective countries but also to connect with peers from across the globe.

Catherine Dalton, Chief Sustainability Officer at IHG Hotels & Resorts, underscored the importance of skills training in community support initiatives. She articulated IHG's commitment to nurturing talent within the hospitality industry and their role in fostering the next generation of professionals. Their continued support for GTTP's annual competition echoes this commitment to skill development and career growth.

The conference wasn't merely confined to presentations and discussions; it offered immersive experiences. Students had the opportunity to explore the inner workings of the Holiday Inn through behind-the-scenes tours, gained insights into the future of travel technology from Amadeus, interacted with businesses on the trade floor to learn about career prospects, and delved into IHG Hotels & Resorts' Skills Academy—an initiative dedicated to inspiring future hospitality professionals.

The conference culminated in a grand Gala Dinner, sponsored by Marriott International, hosted at the rooftop restaurant of the Marriott Al Jaddaf in Dubai. It was an evening of celebration and camaraderie, providing a fitting conclusion to an eventful and insightful conference.

The GTTP Student Conference in Dubai wasn't just a gathering of minds; it was a collaborative effort paving the way for a sustainable and promising future within the Travel & Tourism industry. As students return to their respective corners of the world, they carry with them not only newfound knowledge but also a shared vision for an industry that embraces sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.

Attending the event, Ms. Dakshina Baral from Balodava Secondary School Pokhara and Ms. Barsha Khadka from Bidhyasagar Boarding School Kathmandu, showcased their research report through a brief presentation. Attending the event, Ms. Dakshina Baral from Balodaya Secondary School Pokhara and Ms. Barsha Khadka from Bidhyasagar Boarding School Kathmandu, showcased their research report through a brief presentation.