In a recent conference focusing on investments in tourism and economic development in Europe and Albania, the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, Zurab Pololikashvili, announced the forthcoming establishment of a hospitality education center in Albania with a focus on tourism education.
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| Tirana by drone at Tirana Lake, March 4, 2024 |
This announcement comes as a significant step towards addressing the growing need for skilled workers in the country's booming tourism sector. The conference, held over three days in Tirana, highlighted the importance of human capital in serving the influx of tourists and emphasized the need for investment in education to support the industry's growth.
"Mobilizing millions of tourists is one thing, but who will serve them? This is where human capital comes into play. Every 10-20 dollars invested in education yields a significant return. We have agreed with Prime Minister Edi Rama to establish an education center in Albania to serve the region. While schools exist in Europe, they are not accessible to everyone. In partnership with prominent figures, we have prepared our academy. We have a presence in many countries and want to be in Tirana," stated Pololikashvili, encouraging international companies to invest in Albania.
In recent years, Albania has experienced a tourism boom, with the country seeing a 53% growth rate in the tourism sector, surpassing the average growth rate in Europe. However, the shortage of workers remains a concern.
Natalia Bayona, Director of the World Tourism Organization, offered cooperation to explore appropriate opportunities to enhance the value of this vital sector for the economy.
Albania's Minister of Economy, Blendi Gonxhja, announced a new development package for tourism, focusing on the return of emigrants to the north.
"We are working on a new program for mountain tourism and the development of mountainous areas. We aim to extend tourism throughout the country and throughout the year. We are developing a package, which we are considering calling 'Invest in Your Land' for the northern region, where we will call upon emigrants, encourage them to invest in remote areas, and provide them with many facilities," stated Minister Gonxhja.
Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi, Minister of Tourism in Albania, emphasized that the country is entering a new era in terms of tourism.
"The tourism boom, visitors from all over the world, and the profit of 4.2 billion euros last year solely from this sector have turned tourism into an industry," she said.
The establishment of a hospitality education center reflects Albania's commitment to nurturing its tourism sector and ensuring sustainable growth in the years to come.