A seminar dedicated to exploring career opportunities within the tourism sector was successfully held at the Grand Hotel Gozo. Organised by the Industry HR Unit within the Malta Tourism Authority, in collaboration with the National School Wellbeing Services, Ministry of Education, this event gathered a dynamic group of Gozitan Career Advisors, Guidance Counsellors, PSCD, and Hospitality Teachers.
The participants had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the operations of various tourism sectors by meeting with a cross-section of tourism operators in Gozo. The attendees were split into groups, with one group visiting St. Andrew’s Dive Cove in Xlendi to understand the significant role and career opportunities within the diving sector of the tourism industry. Another group visited BELS English Language School in Kerċem, exploring opportunities within the English language sector and its contribution to tourism in Gozo. The rest met with a Destination Management Company focusing on organising bespoke events, followed by a show round of the Grand Hotel’s facilities.
The formal part of the seminar commenced with Mr. Leslie Vella, Deputy CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, delivering the opening address. Ms. Dorianne Gravina, Education Officer for Career Guidance from the National School Wellbeing Services, provided an informative speech, emphasising the importance of aligning educational paths with career opportunities in tourism.
Joe Muscat, CEO of the Gozo Tourism Association, shared valuable perspectives on Gozo’s tourism landscape, followed by an insightful industry update from Ms. MaryRose Briffa of the Malta Tourism Observatory.
Addressing workforce regeneration, Ivan Borg Ferrando, Cluster General Manager of the Stivala Group, highlighted the strategies and challenges of attracting and maintaining a skilled workforce in the tourism sector. Professor Avellino from the University of Malta delivered a compelling presentation on the various tourism-related opportunities specifically available in Gozo, emphasising the potential for local development.
Closing the seminar, Ruth Azzopardi from the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) offered an overview of the educational programs, vocational training opportunities, and career pathways ITS provides, underscoring its essential role in supporting the industry’s workforce development.
Overall, the seminar proved highly informative and beneficial, providing educators and career guidance professionals with extensive knowledge to better support students pursuing careers in tourism.
