WILLEMSTAD – January 14, 2021 – The Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) and the University of Curaçao Dr. Moises da Costa Gomez (UoC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This MoU is the result of several meetings between the CTB and the university to formalize a non-exclusive framework of co-operation between the two parties. It covers exchange and collaboration programs between the parties in the areas of knowledge, sustainable development and tourism industry expansion. The MoU was signed by CTB CEO, Paul Pennicook and Rector Magnificus of the UoC, Dr. Francis de Lanoy. Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Pennicook stated: “We see the signing of this MoU with the UoC as a way to contribute to the development of the human capital the tourism industry needs. The students enrolled in the International Hospitality & Tourism Management program are the ones who will have to lead this important industry in the future. That is why every investment made in their development now could be of great value to their future careers.” Dr. De Lanoy, in turn, said: “We should avail ourselves of this COVID period to duly prepare our young people to enable them to support the sector in rebuilding the Tourism and Hospitality Industry of our island. The international focus of the program will provide them with the knowledge and skills to not only be able to work locally, but also globally. The power of our island lies in our people and diversity, that’s why the UoC’s slogan is not without reason: “Building local strength for a global future”.
In total, the MoU covers eight areas, including the development of research projects in the interest of the tourism industry, the involvement of students in conducting research, the interchange of information, resources and academic publications, and the exploration of areas of interest within the context of marketing and product development, with certification/accreditation options available to both parties.
The parties already started living up to the spirit of the MoU last year when, for instance, students received a guest lecture by CTB’s CEO along with support through presentation during the orientation at the onset of the program and certification session as part of the real life work program at Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino, Avila Beach Hotel, Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort and Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino.
