SAIPAN — The Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority are thanking local schools for another year of partnership in tourism education, after classes ended early last month in the wake of Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
The outreach reached 18 public schools across the Marianas this year.
“In spite of the challenging economic circumstances, the MTEC continues its education outreach efforts to promote and inform our youth about the importance of the Marianas tourism industry,” said MTEC Chairman Vicky Benavente.
“We extend a warm si Yu’us ma’ase, olomwaay, and thank you to every school that welcomed our outreach team this school year,” said MVA Acting Managing Director Judy C. Torres. “The spirit of the Marianas truly is Far From Ordinary, something we continue to see in the way our islands have come together following Super Typhoon Sinlaku. It’s always a privilege to help our youth recognize how special our home is and inspire them to share the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the Marianas with the world.”
The final outreach of the year took place on Tinian, where the team brought interactive tourism education to Tinian High School and Tinian Elementary School. Students explored how tourism strengthens the local economy, provides jobs, and creates opportunities for young people, and looked at their own island community through the lens of today’s traveller.
“It is important for them to learn about tourism, as it directly affects their lives. Our school is directly funded by government funds, which is partly coming from tourism dollars,” said Konrad Kiyoshi, a Tinian High School classroom teacher. “Also, they explored how they can highlight and share the value of their own island with visitors.”
“Surveys tell us today’s travellers are looking for meaningful travel that delivers positive emotions, connections, and authentic culture, and that’s exactly what Tinian has to offer,” said MVA Community Projects Specialist Sherman Santos. “The island’s Far From Ordinary history, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned hospitality make it a meaningful setting for youth to understand their role in shaping the Marianas’ visitor experience.”
MTEC, a nonprofit organization, works to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry, educate students about the social and economic benefits of tourism, and promote the Håfa Adai-Tirow spirit throughout the Marianas. Through collaboration with local schools and support for school MYWAVE Clubs, MTEC and MVA aim to inspire young residents to take pride in their island and recognize their role in shaping the future of the Marianas’ visitor economy.
