Revamping Caribbean Tourism: A New Era of Education and Workforce Development
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is stepping up to the plate with an exciting new initiative aimed at modernising tourism education and workforce development across the Caribbean. Partnering with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), this project is set to breathe fresh life into an industry that is not just a source of income but a cornerstone of economic stability for many island nations.
The initiative, known as the Tourism Human Capital Development Project, comes with a hefty investment of around US$400,000. This funding will be used to update training materials, develop workforce management tools, and roll out professional development programmes. The project is aptly titled “Enhancing the Knowledge and Skills of Tourism Workers in the Caribbean Region,” and its focus is clear: to strengthen the sustainability of the tourism industry, especially for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
Dona Regis-Prosper, the CTO’s secretary-general and chief executive officer, emphasised the importance of this initiative. “These efforts will equip industry professionals with the skills needed to adapt to evolving market demands and ensure the sector’s long-term resilience,” she stated. It’s all about building a robust workforce, from students to industry leaders, ensuring that everyone is prepared to meet the challenges ahead.
The project builds on insights from a 2022 Regional Human Resource Development Knowledge and Skills Audit, which highlighted critical gaps in skills and knowledge within the tourism sector. This audit was also supported by the CDB, showcasing a commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of the industry.
One of the most exciting aspects of this initiative is the plan to update tourism education materials from primary school all the way through to university level. Imagine a future where students in Jamaica, Barbados, and beyond are learning about tourism in a way that’s relevant and engaging! Additionally, the project will introduce an online workforce management platform and training focused on digital innovation and leadership—skills that are becoming increasingly vital in today’s tech-driven world.
Regis-Prosper expressed gratitude towards the CDB for their support, saying, “We are grateful to the CDB, and its CTCS Network, for supporting this initiative to enhance the competitiveness of the Caribbean tourism workforce and businesses.” This collaboration is a testament to the shared vision of uplifting the region’s tourism sector.
L O’Reilly Lewis, CDB’s acting Director of Projects, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of building resilience in production and promoting private sector operations. “The bank is pleased to engage and support CTO with this initiative,” he said. “We recognise the tourism industry’s significance to many of our regional economies and CDB’s borrowing members in terms of its contribution to both economic and social development.”
As the world faces economic uncertainties and increased competition, the need for skilled workers in the tourism sector has never been more pressing. Industry experts agree that attracting and retaining talent will be crucial for the Caribbean’s economic future.
With this initiative, the Caribbean is not just looking to survive but to thrive. It’s about creating a workforce that is adaptable, skilled, and ready to meet the demands of a changing market. As we look ahead, one has to wonder: how will this new wave of education and training reshape the Caribbean tourism landscape?