Munnar’s adventure tourism is set for a boost as local youth undergo training to become skilled guides, enhancing India’s tourism with new opportunities.

Kerala’s Adventure Tourism Gains New Energy with Local Talent

Kerala’s adventure tourism sector, especially in Munnar, is poised for a fresh surge with the inclusion of young, highly trained guides. The Kerala Institute of Travel and Tourism Studies (KITTS) and the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS), both under the state’s Tourism Department, are collaborating on a one-week skill development program. This initiative, named ‘Earn While You Learn,’ is designed to tap into the growing tourism market and provide local youth with valuable employment opportunities. The first group of 18 students from Idukki, selected through physical and other criteria, is set to begin their training soon.

Empowering Youth with Skills for Adventure Tourism

Participants who successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to secure jobs at various adventure parks and establishments offering adventure sports. This marks a significant move toward enhancing the local workforce for Kerala’s thriving adventure tourism industry. Additionally, KITTS is introducing a comprehensive adventure tourism course for students, aiming to train approximately 300 young individuals in the field.

Addressing the Shortage of Local Professionals

While Kerala hosts a range of international adventure events, including mountain cycling, paragliding, and surfing, there is a notable shortage of local professionals who possess in-depth knowledge of the region. Currently, many of the experts in the field are from outside the state. This new training initiative seeks to integrate local talent into the sector, filling the gap and ensuring that Kerala’s adventure tourism offerings are supported by individuals who truly understand the area. In the coming months, the training will also expand to include water sports such as rafting and surfing.

A Platform for Local Students to Thrive

The idea for this training program was suggested by Aju T.G., a physical education faculty member at Munnar Government College. According to Aju, many students from the institution have a deep understanding of the hill station’s potential as a tourist destination. With many students hailing from tribal communities and families working in plantations, the course offers them an excellent opportunity to harness their local knowledge and transform it into a rewarding career in the adventure tourism industry.

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