On 13 November 2023, in Da Nang City, UNWTO and Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) organized the 17th UNWTO Asia/Pacific Executive Training Programme on Tourism Policy and Strategy.
The 17th UNWTO Asia/Pacific Executive Training Programme on Tourism Policy and Strategy, set to take place in Danang, Vietnam from November 13 to 16, 2023, stands as a significant annual event orchestrated by UNWTO since 2006. This distinctive program, recognized for its engaging discussions and informative content, brings together government officials from across Asia and the Pacific to share insights and enhance regional tourism strategies.
Gathering high-level delegates, this exclusive Training Programme offers a platform for these officials to delve into the latest trends in tourism policy through lectures, debates, and presentations. With changing themes each year, this initiative has garnered substantial support over 16 years, notably from the Republic of Korea, emphasizing its significance in the region.
This year’s theme, “Human Resource Development in Tourism – Navigating Post-Covid Challenges,” aimed to fortify policies and strategies, addressing the evolving needs in the tourism sector post-pandemic. By focusing on topics like sustainable development goals and adapting to changing workforce demands, the program sought to empower regional destinations at multiple levels.
Notable figures, including H.E. Mr. Doan Van Viet, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Mr. Harry Hwang, Director of the Regional Department for Asia and the Pacific, UNWTO, were present at the event. Discussions highlighted the global impact of COVID-19 on tourism, stressing the significance of rethinking tourism strategies in a sustainable direction, along with acknowledging the pivotal role of high-quality human resources in the industry’s revival.
Mr. Tran Chi Cuong, Vice Chairman of Da Nang City, emphasized the city’s role as a thriving economic and cultural hub in Vietnam’s Central region. Da Nang, already recognized for its infrastructure, diverse tourism products, and accolades as a top destination, expressed commitment to supporting initiatives fostering innovation and service quality improvement.
The program’s focus on post-pandemic challenges in the tourism workforce resonated throughout discussions, acknowledging the urgent need to address skill shortages and manage workforce transitions caused by closures and layoffs during the pandemic. These discussions underlined the critical importance of adapting and redefining strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of tourism.
In essence, the 17th UNWTO Asia/Pacific Executive Training Programme in Danang served as a vital platform for regional policymakers and tourism stakeholders to collaboratively address challenges, strengthen policies, and chart a resilient path forward in the post-pandemic tourism landscape.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 