Work

Bridging Theory and Practice: Participant Perceptions of the Wenatour Specialization Programme in Training Sustainable Tourism Managers

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: his paper evaluates the effectiveness of the WeNaTour (Welfare, Nature, and Innovation in Tourism) EU Specialisation Programme in training the next generation of Sustainable Managers for Tourism Destinations. The Erasmus+-funded curriculum integrates foundational coursework with an intensive, practical mobility experience across Austria and Italy, emphasising community well-being and environmental preservation. This unique specialisation provided advanced training, including GSTC certification principles, through hands-on fieldwork and workshops with industry experts. Focusing on the opinions of the 16 selected participants, this research finds that the blended approach is highly valued for its success in bridging theoretical knowledge with tangible, practical skills. Furthermore, it highlights that the program effectively cultivates the interdisciplinary competency and holistic perspective, essential for responsible destination management, affirming the project's relevance for future sustainable tourism education.

Source: Bulletin of the Transilvania University of Brasov Series V Economic Sciences

DOI: 10.31926/but.es.2026.19.68.1.3

Authors: N. Orio, N.T.D. Vu, A.N. Candrea, R.G. Albu, D. Zilio

Institutions: University of Padua, Transilvania University of Brașov

Language: English

Topic: Hospitality and Tourism Education

Subfield: Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: European Commission