Educational tourism is unquestionably important to further develop Cyprus tourism and avoid seasonality. In view of this fact, a short interview has been conducted with an expert on educational tourism, Ms. Yanna Orphanidou, Coordinator of the BBA Hospitality Management Programme, Department of Management, School of Business Administration, University of Nicosia. Ms. Yianna Orphanidou, is an expert in educational tourism as she is an academic in the tourism sector.
1.What is educational tourism for you and why is it considered important in Cyprus?
Educational tourism refers to travel activities related to education and immersion in thematic areas such as language, history, culture and other similar areas. This may include participation in courses, seminars, events and tours that focus on educational objectives. Educational tourism is considered important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it offers a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge and culture of a country. Secondly, it contributes to the development of a country’s tourism sector by diversifying the profile of visitors and attracting people interested in learning.
2.How has educational tourism in Cyprus been used so far? What steps have been taken so far by various institutions?
Educational institutions in Cyprus have partnerships with universities and educational institutions from different countries to organize joint programs, seminars, and academic events. The organisation of conferences, seminars and educational events has encouraged the arrival of educational groups and it appears that this flow of educational visitors is constantly increasing.
Institutions such as the Ministry of Tourism, educational institutions and local authorities can work together to develop comprehensive strategies for educational tourism in order to fully exploit Cyprus’ potential in this sector.
3.What do you think are the most important type(s) of educational tourism that deserve to be exploited based on their potential in Cyprus?
Educational tourism with an emphasis on history and culture could attract pupils, students and professionals to visit our island as well as the provision of education and training in professional fields such as tourism, gastronomy and cultural tourism.
4.What is your relationship as a professional with educational tourism?
As an academic in the field of tourism education, my relationship with educational tourism is direct, training future professionals in the tourism sector. The University of Nicosia’s curricula include educational activities that support educational tourism and allow our students to live the educational experience through travel and international exchanges.
5.What would you like to briefly tell readers about educational tourism?
Educational tourism opens doors to learning and experiences, combining education with travel. It is a way to explore new cultures, histories and realities. Through educational tourism, we form critical thinking, strengthen our skills and create international bridges of understanding.
6.How do you think the results of the European EduTourism project can be used in Cyprus?
It is important to adopt the best practices and recommendations resulting from EduTourism and integrate them into the local strategy for educational tourism in Cyprus.