The perspective of Digitalization of Tourism through Vocational Education and Training

DIGiTraVEl had a clear mission during its operation, which was to confront the difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic within the tourism sector. Its primary focus was on providing Voc...

DIGiTraVEl had a clear mission during its operation, which was to confront the difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic within the tourism sector. Its primary focus was on providing Vocational Education and Training (VET) trainers and learners with the essential tools and knowledge required to embark on a successful business venture in the emerging market of Digital Tourism. The initiative aimed to encourage the widespread adoption of Digital Tourism by establishing a VET path. This path was designed to create a new and effective business framework, ensuring that individuals in the tourism sector had the necessary skills and understanding to thrive in the evolving landscape. One key aspect of DIGiTraVEl's objectives was to enable newcomers in the tourism industry to grasp the intricacies of digitizing their services. Recognizing the shift towards digital platforms, the initiative sought to empower businesses to adapt and stay relevant in a changing market. DIGiTraVEl was a comprehensive effort to not only address the challenges posed by the pandemic but also to proactively equip individuals and businesses in the tourism sector with the means to thrive in the digital era.

The project involves comprehensive research efforts at both national and European levels to support its development. Two crucial Project Meetings have been planned, with the first taking place in Romania (TPM1) and the second in Greece (TPM2). To facilitate collaboration and information dissemination, a Digital Platform has been crafted by EQUALINE. Additionally, the project benefits from the joint efforts of GRM Novo Mesto and uDevelop, who are co-developing Innovative Educational Material. ASEL RO is taking charge of creating and publishing an eHandbook, adding a valuable educational resource to the project's arsenal. Furthermore, the initiative aims to engage local communities through the hosting of four Infodays, one in each partnering country, to enhance awareness and understanding. To amplify the project's reach, there will be ongoing activities focused on creating further Informational Material and conducting dissemination efforts at the local level, ensuring the broad impact of the initiative.

The project's web platform and toolkit have notably increased tourism employment, boosting revenues and creating self-employment opportunities. Entrepreneurship skills among adults have flourished, benefiting both local and European contexts. A key outcome is the amplified exposure of EU local attractions, facilitated by the widespread adoption of Digital Tourism practices. These results target the tourism sector, aligning with its specific needs and challenges. Responding to evaluators' feedback, it's essential to underscore that all project outcomes are indeed aimed at the tourism sector. The targeted impacts on employment, advanced digital skills, and entrepreneurship directly address the sector's needs. The project indirectly contributes to the priority of inclusion by creating opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in the tourism sector. The project's results distinctly focus on strengthening the tourism sector while indirectly aligning with inclusion priorities.