Workshop enhances EU-funded tourism program

Repeka Nasiko
Monday, May 21, 2012

A South Pacific Tourism Organisation workshop brought together heads of tourism organisations and the private sector in an effort to raise awareness and understanding of the European Union-funded Pacific Regional Tourism Capacity Building Program.

The one-day workshop in Nadi on Friday targeted heads and representatives of beneficiary Pacific ACP countries. SPTO board of directors at the workshop hoped that the discussions would help the implementation of the program.

The EU-funded PRTCB program was launched recently with an aim to strengthen capacity in the tourism industry in the region. SPTO chief executive Ilisoni Vuidreketi said through this project, they aimed to help member countries including Fiji, to improve their tourism policies and plans and generally build their capacity to grow and manage their sector sustainability.

“More importantly, we will help the private sector, with special emphasis on small-scale operators to access markets by providing research and intelligence support on niche markets, training and skill development as well as product improvement,” said Mr Vuidreketi.

The workshop focused on the European Development Fund and the PRTCB program. It also highlighted the roles of the regional authorising officer which is the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, SPTO and the European Union delegation.

Organisers of the workshop hoped that the participants would gain an in-depth understanding of the EU program detailed work plan activities, enabling provision of increased support and their involvement at national level.