Jakarta, 9 April 2026 – Travel + Leisure Co. has partnered with Swiss German University to develop updated competency standards for the tourism education system through a forum group discussion (FGD), attended by leading academics and industry practitioners.

During the session, several key issues were highlighted, including the importance of integrating technology – particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance guest services while maintaining a human touch – and the need to update certifications to prepare young talent to be globally competitive.

Through this discussion, Travel + Leisure Co. and Swiss German University developed a series of recommendations to serve as a foundation for shaping the future of the tourism industry, including:

  • Developing International Certification Standards: Designing certification curricula that are internationally recognised to validate students’ competencies.
  • Implementing AI-Driven Management: Integrating AI in managing guest data to deliver more personalised and efficient services.
  • Introducing Digital-Based ‘Teaching Factory’ Concepts: Adopting industry-driven learning models that reflect current trends, enabling students to adapt to a digitally driven tourism ecosystem.

This collaboration is expected to foster an adaptive education ecosystem aligned with global trends, while nurturing a new generation equipped with the knowledge and mindset to drive the growth of the tourism industry.

“What guests expect today continues to evolve and is not always reflected in conventional approaches. This collaboration is an important step in ensuring that the standards we develop are aligned with these changing expectations,” said Indra Budiman, Area General Manager, Travel + Leisure Co.

“Innovation in learning is essential. Through this synergy, we aim to ensure that the knowledge gained in the classroom remains aligned with the needs and dynamics of the industry,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dipl-Ing. Samuel P. Kusumocahyo, Rector of Swiss German University.

Travel + Leisure Co. oversees more than 100 properties in the Asia Pacific region and develops four shared ownership vacation clubs with more than 100,000 members: Club Wyndham South Pacific, Club Wyndham Asia, Accor Vacation Club and Accor Vacation Club Asia Pacific.

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