UN Tourism and the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) at Cornell University’s Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise have partnered for the first time to cultivate the global talent, capacity, and leadership essential for managing tourism destinations in a way that safeguards local well-being and preserves critical natural and cultural resources through the use of advanced tools and frameworks.
The two organizations announced that they will provide financial assistance to 350 individuals, allowing them to enroll in Cornell University’s Sustainable Tourism Destination Management online course at no cost. This course was developed with the support and collaboration of the Travel Foundation and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
“Destination management is a new discipline which requires topflight expertise to protect vital destination assets and ensure there are local benefits, as tourism markets expand rapidly worldwide,” says Megan Epler Wood, Managing Director of the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) at Cornell University’s SC Johnson College of Business. Epler Wood further emphasizes that “decision makers will require evidence-based insights to monitor and shape tourism economies, and we at Cornell University are proud to offer worldwide access to advanced training on the topic through our collaboration with UN Tourism.”
As of April 8, the application process for Cornell’s Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) is officially open on its website and will remain available for two months. To qualify, applicants must be residents of one of the 154 eligible countries, possess proficiency in English, and be willing to complete the extensive 40-hour course over an 8-week period, which averages to approximately half a day of study each week.
In response to the pressing demand for effective management of global tourism growth, this self-paced course is tailored for both students and professionals in public and private sectors. It offers practical tools and exercises that are directly relevant to the requirements of tourism ministries, destination management organizations, protected areas, municipal governments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Natalia Bayona, Executive Director at UN Tourism said, “Education is the cornerstone of sustainable tourism development. By equipping professionals and leaders with the tools and knowledge to align their strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals, we are paving the way for a tourism sector that not only drives economic growth but also safeguards our cultural heritage and natural ecosystems for future generations. This partnership with Cornell University exemplifies how education can be a catalyst for meaningful change.”
Antonio López de Ávila Director of Innovation, Education and Investments at UN Tourism added, “Tourism’s true potential lies in its ability to contribute to global sustainability, but this can only be achieved through education and collaboration. By joining forces with Cornell University, we are empowering destination managers and practitioners with the knowledge they need to protect communities, preserve biodiversity, and ensure tourism remains a driver of positive change.” Graduates who fulfill all course requirements will receive a Recognition of Achievement from eCornell.