UN Tourism and International Baccalaureate Join Forces on Tourism Education

International

New partnership aims to expand high-quality tourism education at high school level worldwide

UN Tourism and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB) have entered into a new partnership designed to strengthen tourism education at high school level. A Memorandum of Understanding signed by both organisations sets out a framework for closer cooperation, with the shared goal of improving access to relevant skills and knowledge for young people interested in careers in tourism.

Strengthening skills for a growing sector

The agreement focuses on joint initiatives to enhance the quality and reach of tourism education in schools. Central to the collaboration is the development of skills and competencies that align with the needs of the tourism sector, as well as capacity building and professional development opportunities for young learners. The partnership also establishes an ongoing dialogue to identify further areas of mutual interest at the intersection of education and tourism.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili underlined the importance of the initiative, stating: “Quality tourism education for all is key to supporting young people and allowing them to work and thrive in our sector. With the International Baccalaureate Organization, we will work to allow high school level students develop the skills and knowledge that tourism businesses are looking for.”

Education and tourism as global connectors

From the IB perspective, the partnership reflects the close relationship between education, economic development and global responsibility. IB Director General Olli-Pekka Heinonen said: “Education plays a critical role in shaping industries, connecting people, and fostering responsibility in a shared global economy, while tourism brings cultures, economies, and communities together. This partnership with UN Tourism will help the IB expand opportunities for young people to develop real-world skills in a rapidly growing sector.”

By linking global education standards with the evolving needs of tourism, the collaboration aims to prepare the next generation for meaningful and sustainable careers in one of the world’s most interconnected industries.