The project aimed to create lasting methods for developing education and research structures within educational institutions in collaboration with international working life. We focused on building strong links between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the tourism industry through structured work packages. Key goals included developing learning outcomes that meet both student and industry needs. By connecting students with up-to-date HEI knowledge to the tourism sector, we aimed to provide qualified staff for a rapidly evolving industry. We also focused on supporting disadvantaged students in building tourism careers and helping businesses better integrate diverse employees. Our work packages analyzed best practices for applying tourism research to industry, used visualization to make data more accessible, explored Generation Z’s workplace values, and introduced the “Idea Manager” role to connect HEIs and destination management organizations. The overall goal was to enhance HEI curricula, strengthen student-industry connections, and help the tourism sector benefit from the latest academic research.
The tourism industry is rapidly evolving, facing challenges in technology, sustainability, safety, and the impact of Covid. A critical gap was identified between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the tourism industry. Our needs analysis showed both sectors recognized this disconnect but lacked clear solutions. We launched this project to address key challenges: tourism SMEs needed support to close skill gaps and access academic knowledge, while students needed better ways to apply theory in practice. Few projects had united businesses and education internationally. Our goal was to create lasting methods for education and research collaboration. By making students knowledge brokers between academia and industry, we aimed to give businesses access to the latest research, enhance HEI curricula, and help students build practical skills and industry connections.