The Faculty of Arts at the University of Colombo will inaugurate its Sustainable Tourism Unit (STU) today (2) from 2:00 p.m. onwards at the Senate Hall, College House, marking a significant milestone for
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. Aligned with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the establishment of the STU signifies a paradigm shift from unsustainable practices towards integrated, inclusive, and eco-conscious tourism development in Sri Lanka.
The initiative recognises the critical importance of evidence-based knowledge, data-driven insights, stakeholder awareness, and industry implementation of sustainable tourism practices.
The primary objective of the UOC-STU is to serve as a knowledge hub, offering evidence-based insights, outcome-oriented training, public awareness campaigns and intellectual contributions to drive inclusive and integrated sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka.
Sustainable Tourism Unit Coordinator Prof. D.A.C. Suranga Silva expressed his vision for the UOC-STU, under the direction of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo and the recommendation of the Dean, Faculty of Arts, emphasising the unit’s unique initiation and commitment.
“The ultimate aspiration of UOC-STU is to emerge as the premier centre of excellence, fostering innovation, sharing knowledge, and catalysing actions to propel Sri Lanka Tourism to the forefront of the global stage. This milestone inauguration sets a promising trajectory for the future of sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka,” he said.
To kickstart this endeavour, an Industry-Policy and Diplomatic Dialogue themed ‘The Future of Wisdom Enlightening for Sustainable Tourism Development’ will be held concurrently at the launch to mark the UNWTO World Tourism Day Celebration 2023.
This dialogue aims to bring together international and national organisations, including UNDP, ADB, USAID, UNWTO, SLTDA and the Ministry of Tourism, along with industry experts.
Prof. Silva said by leveraging the expertise of 13 departments and multiple teaching units in the Social Sciences, the STU is poised to make a substantial impact on sustainable tourism development.
He also emphasised the pivotal role of Social Sciences in understanding human behaviour, cultural dynamics, and economic factors underpinning sustainable tourism. The unit’s motto, ‘Wisdom Enlightening for Sustainable Tourism’, encapsulates its commitment to integrating industry best practices and global standards into Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.
