Furthermore, the findings highlight the search for experiences connected with nature and the emergence of a new professional profile.
SANTO DOMINGO- The National Institute of Technical and Professional Training (Infotep) presented the "Prospective Study of Technical Competencies in Community-Based Rural Tourism," an advanced research project that identifies the training and technological needs and the strengthening of local capacities that will shape the development of this sector over the next ten years.
The study, developed by Infotep with the support of national and international experts, identifies the global, technological, environmental and social trends that will impact rural tourism in the next ten years.
The general director of the governing institution of the FTP, Rafael Santos Badía, highlighted that the study is a strategic tool to transform opportunities in the rural areas of the country through technical training , local entrepreneurship and socio-economic strengthening .
He said that the study's findings highlight the growing demand for authentic, sustainable, and nature-connected, the need for specialized technical and professional training, and the emergence of a new occupational profile in the sector, with digital skills, soft skills, organizational management, and marketing.
“This study clearly outlines the path we must take if we want to build a more humane development model. It is not just research; it is a commitment to the people, to territorial equity, and to the transformative potential of community-based rural tourism,” said Santos Badía.
He indicated that community-based rural tourism represents a unique opportunity to redistribute wealth, preserve traditions and protect natural resources, while generating employment and local roots.
Sonia Sánchez, head of the Research and Didactic Production Department at Infotep, said when presenting the research that the study shows that rural tourism, in particular, faces unique challenges and opportunities, so the integration of new technologies, the diversification of products and markets, and the mitigation of seasonality are crucial aspects that require support and training for all actors involved.
“The research will serve as a basis for updating the curriculum of Infotep programs, designing new occupations, and training trainers, aligning the educational offering with the demands of the present and the challenges of the future,” Sánchez stated.
New professions or occupations in demand
Another important finding from the study is a set of 24 professions or occupations that will be essential to achieving sustainable community tourism.
These occupations include agritourism specialist, adventure guide, sustainable tourism technician, ecotourism specialist, digital destination manager, nature tourism manager, among others.
These new occupations reflect the evolution of rural tourism towards a more specialized, sustainable industry focused on authentic experiences, providing opportunities for growth and development for both businesses and professionals in the sector.
The presentation of the study included the panel “Community Rural Tourism: Cutting-edge technical skills: Success stories”, with the participation of Víctor Ferreras from the Ferreras Business Group of Pedernales; Anllela Rivas, executive director of the Espaillat province Cluster, and Jairo Morillo Arvelo, mayor of Jamao al Norte, vice president of the Espaillat province ecotourism cluster and manager of Jamao Eco-Tours.
Background
The Prospective Study of Technical Skills in Community Rural Tourism presented by Infotep is part of the collaboration with the Network of Institutes of Technical and Professional Training (REDIFP).
This alliance seeks to strengthen technical training in rural and community tourism, promoting the transfer of international best practices and adapting the training offer to the specific needs of each region of the country.
The activity took place in the auditorium of the Infotep institutional headquarters, with the participation of authorities, experts, community leaders and representatives of the tourism sector.
