Held ahead of World Tourism Day on 27 September, this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlights the transformative role of technology and innovation in shaping a smarter, more competitive and sustainable tourism industry. At Angsana Velavaru, the occasion provided an opportunity to bring the spirit of the theme closer to the local community by introducing young islanders to the tourism industry and highlighting the importance of responsible practices in protecting the Maldives’ natural environment.
During the visit, students were given a direct tour of Angsana Velavaru, visiting different departments across the resort to gain a first-hand understanding of how a resort operates. From guest-facing teams to the departments working behind the scenes, students were introduced to the people, skills and processes that come together to create the overall guest experience. The tour also provided an insight into the diverse career opportunities available within the hospitality and tourism industry.
A key part of the programme was learning how sustainability is incorporated into the resort’s daily operations. Students were introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s waste management and resource conservation practices, including waste segregation, reduction, reuse and recycling. The session demonstrated how responsible waste management can reduce environmental impact and contribute to maintaining a cleaner and healthier island environment. It also highlighted that sustainability is built through everyday actions, with both associates and guests playing an important role in making responsible choices.
The students were also introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s ongoing marine conservation efforts through the resort’s Marine Lab. They learned about the importance of coral reefs to the Maldivian ecosystem and the role they play in providing habitats for marine life. The Marine Lab currently supports two coral rope nurseries and one coral garden within the lagoon, alongside ongoing conservation activities including coral planting and reef cleaning.
Through the experience, students were able to see how tourism and environmental conservation can work together. Beyond simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Maldives, the visit encouraged the students to understand the responsibility involved in protecting the marine environment and the natural resources that support the country’s tourism industry.
For Angsana Velavaru, World Tourism Day is an opportunity not only to celebrate the tourism industry, but also to connect with the young people who will help shape its future. By welcoming students from nearby islands and sharing the resort’s operations and sustainability practices, the resort aims to inspire greater awareness of tourism, encourage future career aspirations and nurture a stronger sense of environmental responsibility among the next generation.
As technology and innovation continue to transform tourism, Angsana Velavaru believes that progress must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility, education and community engagement. Through continued efforts in marine conservation, responsible resource and waste management, community engagement and education, the resort remains committed to creating positive environmental and social impact while supporting a sustainable future for Maldivian tourism.
