Inspiring Future Tourism Ambassadors – Tuvalu’s Department of Tourism Engages Students at Motufoua Secondary School

The Department of Tourism in Tuvalu recently launched an educational initiative to raise awareness about tourism’s impact and potential among secondary school students. The awareness program was held at Motufoua Secondary School on Vaitupu Island, Tuvalu’s only boarding school.

Led by the Department’s tourism officers, the initiative aimed to inform and inspire the next generation to see tourism as a vibrant, sustainable pathway for their communities and nation. The interactive session encouraged students to share their thoughts and questions about the tourism sector, helping them understand how tourism could support a sustainable future for Tuvalu.

As part of the official rollout of the Fātamā Homestay Policy across the outer islands, Ms Alena Faitalia, Tourism Officer from the Department, organised an in-person session with senior level students (Form 5 and 6) at Motufoua.

The session also highlighted the importance of tourism in fostering economic growth, preserving Tuvaluan culture, and contributing to community well-being. The students were introduced to the array of career opportunities that tourism could provide within Tuvalu’s context.

By presenting tourism as a pathway to personal and community development, the initiative seeks to build a sense of pride and ownership among young Tuvaluans toward their islands’ unique offerings.

Through this program, the Department of Tourism reaffirms its commitment to fostering a culture of learning and engagement around tourism in Tuvalu. By sparking interest among students today, Tuvalu is building a future generation of tourism ambassadors who can help shape and promote Tuvalu’s unique identity on a global stage.

The visit marks the beginning of a larger effort to connect Tuvaluan youth with career possibilities within their communities, making tourism an attractive option for supporting the country’s social and economic aspirations.

Photo Caption: Tourism Marketing Officer, Alena Faitalia (sitting-third from left), with Year 12 and 13 students of Motufoua Secondary

Photo Credit: Tuvalu Tourism Department Facebook Page