In a landmark collaboration, the United Nations’ tourism body and Hotelschool The Hague have embarked on a transformative journey to revolutionize the hospitality sector across Europe. This strategic partnership leverages a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to spearhead innovation, drive entrepreneurship, and enhance educational opportunities within the dynamic world of hospitality. This partnership isn’t

In a landmark collaboration, the United Nations’ tourism body and Hotelschool The Hague have embarked on a transformative journey to revolutionize the hospitality sector across Europe. This strategic partnership leverages a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to spearhead innovation, drive entrepreneurship, and enhance educational opportunities within the dynamic world of hospitality.

This partnership isn’t just about education; it’s a breeding ground for innovation. With 20% of UN Tourism’s entrepreneurial network deeply rooted in hospitality, this initiative is set to invigorate the sector with fresh, dynamic projects. By connecting startups with potential investors and enriching knowledge through joint events and media interactions, the alliance aims to foster innovation and facilitate sustainable practices and inclusive opportunities across the globe.

At the core of this initiative, the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge stands out. This competition showcases Hotelschool The Hague’s commitment to merging theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. It encourages students to develop and present ideas that could potentially revolutionize sustainability practices within the hospitality industry.

Ms. Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism, highlighted the critical need for this partnership, noting, “A staggering 90% of startups in the hospitality sector fail due to inadequate support and lack of robust, practical education. By merging our resources and networks, we aim to change this narrative, offering startups not just a chance to survive, but to thrive and integrate seamlessly into the hospitality ecosystem.”

Adding to this, Ms. Regine von Stieglitz, President of Hotelschool The Hague, emphasized the school’s holistic approach to education, which balances theory with applied research and real-world experience. “We are nurturing leaders who not only excel in their careers but also drive the hospitality industry towards a more generous future,” she stated.

Founded in 1929 and funded by the hospitality industry, Hotelschool The Hague has been at the forefront of international hospitality management education. This institution focuses intensely on sustainability and digital transformation and prides itself on producing graduates who are not only ready to lead but also eager to innovate and push the boundaries of what the hospitality industry can achieve.

Through this groundbreaking partnership, UN Tourism and Hotelschool The Hague set new standards for the hospitality sector, including innovation and sustainability. Their collaborative efforts promise to create a more inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable future for the industry, ensuring that it not only recovers but thrives in the years to come.

Written by: Kanda Limw

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