Sree Narayana Arts and Science College, Kumarakom
Introduction
The Tourism Club at Sree Narayana Arts and Science College, Kumarakom, has been a vital platform for promoting tourism and fostering skill development among students since its inception in 2005. In 2023, the club was officially registered with the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, and renamed "Krittika" Tourism Club, a name symbolically linked to the heritage of Kumarakom. On June 4, 2024, the club took a significant step forward by joining the YUVA Tourism Club of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This milestone marks a new chapter in the club’s journey towards developing young tourism ambassadors and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
The Krittika Tourism Club’s activities focus on creating awareness about sustainable tourism, developing skills among students, and providing hands-on experiences in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Through various programs such as workshops, field visits, cultural exchange programs, and volunteering at tourism events, students gain valuable insights into tourism management and develop leadership and communication skills.
Vision of YUVA Tourism Club
The YUVA Tourism Club, launched by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, aims to celebrate India's 75th year of independence by nurturing and developing young ambassadors of Indian tourism. The club seeks to promote India's rich cultural heritage and foster ideals in harmony with sustainable development. Through various activities, the club aims to instill a passion for tourism, responsible travel, and appreciation for India’s diverse cultural landscapes.
Objectives of YUVA Tourism Club
The YUVA Tourism Club has several key objectives:
- Educating Youth: To educate young people about India's diverse cultures, geographies, and tourism opportunities.
- Promoting Tourism: To promote tourism in India and develop young ambassadors who represent the country's tourism potential.
- Teaching Responsible Tourism: To impart knowledge on responsible tourism practices and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Developing Soft Skills: To develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and management through tourism-related activities.
- Training Students: To provide training for students to become tourist guides, volunteers, and tourism professionals.
- Facilitating Study Tours: To facilitate study tours, student exchange programs, and educational travel experiences.
- Creating Awareness: To raise awareness about the various tourism opportunities available across India.
- Appreciating Travel: To foster an appreciation for travel as an essential aspect of education and personal growth.
Key Activities of the Club
- Workshops and Training Sessions: Students participate in various workshops aimed at enhancing their tourism management skills, soft skills, and career readiness.
- Clean-up Drives and Volunteering: The club organizes clean-up drives and volunteers at tourism events, promoting responsible tourism and environmental conservation.
- Cultural Exchange Programs: Students engage in cultural exchange programs, learning about different traditions, languages, and lifestyles across the country.
- Field Visits and Study Tours: The club organizes field visits to key tourist locations and historical sites, providing practical insights into tourism management.
- Awareness Campaigns: The club conducts awareness campaigns focused on sustainable tourism, conservation, and eco-friendly practices.
Conclusion
The YUVA Tourism Club at Sree Narayana Arts and Science College is a vibrant initiative that helps students explore the world of tourism through hands-on experiences and skill development. By fostering a deeper appreciation for India’s cultural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism practices, the club is shaping the next generation of tourism professionals and ambassadors. Through its collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, the club provides students with opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the tourism industry while enhancing their personal and professional growth.