SAIPAN — Students at Gregorio T. Camacho (GTC.) Elementary School and Koblerville Elementary School welcomed the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) last month for presentations designed to teach students about the tourism industry and its role in the Marianas economy.
The annual outreach initiative focuses on engaging 4th, 7th, and 10th grade students through interactive presentations and activities that spotlight tourism as the Marianas’ leading economic driver, tourism’s impact on daily life, and how young people can contribute to the industry’s success.
“I think the kids found it very enlightening,” said Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School 4th grade teacher Frank Gibson. “They learned a lot about the island, what makes it special, what makes it unique, and how they can contribute to tourism.”
This school year’s presentation also introduces students to the new global brand, “Far From Ordinary,” and aims to help them understand what makes the Marianas distinct as a travel destination.
Koblerville Elementary School classroom teacher Rose Castro said reaching students while they are young can help reinforce the importance of community pride and respectful hospitality toward visitors.
The “Far From Ordinary” brand highlights the destination’s distinct features across six pillars: culture, diversity, environment, history, sustainability, and history, according to the release. The presentations also included an overview of the MVA’s role as the state tourism office, including marketing, community events, and product development.
MTEC is a nonprofit organization whose mission includes fostering community understanding and support of the visitor industry, educating the public about tourism’s value and contributions, and promoting the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the community.
