Learning Beyond the Classroom Through Community Engagement

Students from the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) gained valuable firsthand experience in cruise tourism during an educational day tour to Ngella on Sunday, 4 October 2026.

The tour was organized in partnership with Aelancruise Tours & Travels for second-year Bachelor of Hospitality Business and Events Management students enrolled in The Guide to Cruise Tourism course.

The educational excursion provided students with practical exposure to cruise tourism operations, shore excursions, and community-based tourism, allowing them to connect classroom theory with real-world industry experiences. During the visit, students explored several tourism destinations, including Ravu Sodulu Village, Maravagi Resort, and Nughu Beach Bungalows.

A key highlight of the tour was the visit to Ravu Sodulu Village, where students received a warm traditional welcome featuring songs, fresh tropical fruits, and local refreshments. The visit offered students the opportunity to engage directly with community members, learn about local customs and traditions, and gain insights into the village’s tourism potential.

Community representatives expressed their appreciation for the visit, noting that it was the first time they had hosted SINU tourism students. They welcomed the opportunity to establish a relationship with the School and to share their cultural heritage and tourism aspirations with future industry professionals.

As a gesture of gratitude, the students presented a token of appreciation to the community. The exchange reflected the importance of mutual respect, partnership, and giving back to communities that play a vital role in the tourism industry.

STHM lecturer Madam Emarlyn acknowledged and thanked Aelancruise Tours & Travels and the host communities for making the learning experience possible. She emphasized that tourism education should create benefits not only for students but also for the communities that are at the heart of the tourism sector.

The educational tour reinforced the importance of experiential learning and highlighted how meaningful community engagement can help prepare students to become responsible and effective tourism professionals.

Source: School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM