UN Tourism and International Baccalaureate Join Forces to Strengthen Tourism Education at High School Level
UN Tourism and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at expanding and enhancing tourism education for high school students worldwide. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both organizations commit to working collaboratively to build stronger pathways into the tourism sector for young learners.
This initiative reflects the growing recognition that tourism is not only a key economic driver but also a field that requires well-trained, globally minded professionals equipped with intercultural understanding, sustainability awareness, and practical industry skills.
A Shared Vision for Future Tourism Professionals
Under the agreement, UN Tourism and the IB will collaborate across three key areas:
- Developing initiatives to strengthen the skills and knowledge of young tourism students, ensuring they are better prepared for careers in the sector.
- Supporting capacity building and professional development, helping students gain practical competencies relevant to the evolving tourism industry.
- Maintaining ongoing dialogue to identify further areas of cooperation between tourism and education.
The partnership seeks to bridge the gap between formal education and industry needs, ensuring that future professionals are not only academically prepared but also practically equipped for real-world challenges in travel and tourism.
Leadership Perspectives
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of education in shaping the future of tourism:
“Quality tourism education for all is key to supporting young people and allowing them to work and thrive in our sector. With the International Baccalaureate Organization, we will work to allow high school level students develop the skills and knowledge that tourism businesses are looking for.”
His statement highlights UN Tourism’s commitment to making tourism a viable, respected, and accessible career pathway for the next generation.
Similarly, Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General of the International Baccalaureate Organization, underscored the broader significance of the partnership:
“Education plays a critical role in shaping industries, connecting people, and fostering responsibility in a shared global economy, while tourism brings cultures, economies, and communities together. This partnership with UN Tourism will help the IB expand opportunities for young people to develop real-world skills in a rapidly growing sector.”
Why This Partnership Matters
Tourism is one of the world’s largest employers and a major contributor to global economic development. However, the industry faces increasing demands for sustainability, digital transformation, and responsible travel practices. By integrating tourism education into high school curricula, UN Tourism and IB aim to:
- Inspire early interest in tourism careers
- Build a more skilled and diverse workforce
- Promote sustainable and ethical travel values
- Strengthen the connection between education and industry
This collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach to workforce development in a sector that is continuously evolving.
Looking Ahead
As the partnership progresses, further programs, pilot initiatives, and educational frameworks may emerge, benefiting students, educators, and the tourism industry alike. The alliance signals a meaningful step toward positioning tourism as a respected academic and professional field at the secondary education level.
