By Julius Nsikak
Students from secondary schools and tertiary institutions across Akwa Ibom State have been encouraged to preserve their cultural heritage and explore opportunities in tourism as a pathway to economic growth and community development.
The call was made on Thursday during the second edition of the Tourism Education Summit organised by the Passionate Young Leaders Initiative at the Culture House in Uyo.
The summit, themed Inspiring Young Tourism “Stewards for Sustainable Tourism Practices”, brought together young people to learn about tourism, leadership and the importance of protecting cultural and historical sites.
Speaking at the event, tourism advocate and promoter of the initiative, Ms. Ememobong Anthony, said many historic sites in communities across the state remain neglected because people are unaware of their tourism value.
She said the summit was organised to help young people recognise the potential of tourism while encouraging them to preserve their cultural heritage and consider careers in the sector.
“The most neglected places in many villages are historic sites that people could travel from different parts of the world to visit if they are properly preserved and promoted,” Anthony said.
She added that the initiative aims to raise a new generation of tourism ambassadors who will contribute to sustainable tourism development in Nigeria.
One of the organisers of the summit, Ambassador Ubong Essien, represented by Mr Amusan Victor, said the programme was designed to build on the success of its maiden edition by equipping young people with the knowledge and skills required to promote tourism responsibly.
He described tourism as an important tool for preserving culture, empowering young people, creating employment opportunities and fostering national unity.
“Our heritage, traditions, arts, environment and history are valuable assets that must be protected. Young people have an important role to play in preserving them for future generations,” he said.
Participants said the summit broadened their understanding of tourism and its relevance to national development.
Miss Zeal Nathaniel of Modern Training Institute, Uyo, said the programme helped her realise that tourism is a professional field with significant potential to contribute to economic growth.
Miss Enobong Friday Sampson of Community Comprehensive Secondary School, Four Towns, Uyo, said the summit inspired him to see tourism as a meaningful and rewarding career path.
Also speaking, the President General of New Africa International, Prince (Amb.) Ndanti Okuku, commended the organisers for promoting tourism education among young people, describing the initiative as an important step towards advancing sustainable tourism practices.
The summit featured seminars, debates, panel discussions, cultural performances, essay competitions and networking sessions designed to promote leadership, teamwork and environmental awareness among participants.
According to the organisers, the Passionate Young Leaders Initiative also uses tourism as a platform to engage rural communities on child rights advocacy and campaigns against child sexual abuse.
