MoU signed: Tech-integrated programmes for tourism

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), the HR development wing of the state tourism department, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Digital University Kerala (DUK) to introduce innovative, technology-integrated programmes in the tourism and hospitality sector.
Tourism minister P A Mohamed Riyas, who is also the chairman of KITTS, exchanged the MoU with Saji Gopinath, vice-chancellor of DUK. Riyas said the MoU is part of the state govt mission to upgrade the activities of KITTS on par with global standards.
"This collaboration comes close on the heels of the opening of a new academic block on the campus. As part of the mission, various initiatives will be implemented at KITTS in the future," Riyas said.
Significantly, the tie-up comes in the backdrop of Kerala tourism increasingly leveraging cutting-edge digital tools and media in all verticals and planning to set up a technology hub-cum-incubator to mould startups exclusively catering to tourism.
The strategic collaboration aims to equip students, industry professionals, and govt officials with cutting-edge skills to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape across the globe. It would help stakeholders of the tourism industry attain competitiveness since they are relying largely on digital platforms from destination research to booking and trip planning.
The new courses being offered through this MoU will focus on key technology areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, data analytics, digital and social media marketing, and management systems.
Besides, these programmes will serve as additional certifications or diploma courses for KITTS students, who can enhance their prowess in digital technologies, and it will also create opportunities for their placements.