Pacific Tourism Organisation Launches Online Pasifika Cultural Tourism Training to Empower Communities and Celebrate Pacific Identity

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is proud to announce the launch of the Online Pasifika Cultural Tourism Training, a landmark initiative designed to strengthen community-based tourism across the region through inclusive, accessible, and culturally grounded learning.

Delivered via SPTO’s Learning Management System, Tovuti, the training equips cultural practitioners and tourism operators with the skills to design and deliver authentic, high-quality cultural experiences. Participants will explore modules on storytelling, visitor engagement, product development, and cultural tourism principles—supported by weekly live sessions, peer learning, and expert guidance.

This initiative is closely aligned with the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (PSTPF), advancing key pillars on community empowerment, cultural heritage, and regional collaboration. It also draws on the Pacific Cultural Tourism Guidelines to ensure all content is locally relevant, respectful, and rooted in Pacific ways of knowing.

SPTO is honoured to have cultural heritage specialist Simione Sevudredre lead the pilot intake, which will be capped at 25 carefully selected participants. A certificate of completion will be awarded to those who meet all course requirements.

“This training reflects our commitment to building a tourism sector that is inclusive, resilient, and proudly Pacific,” said SPTO CEO Christopher Cocker. “We invite passionate individuals across the region to take part and help shape the future of cultural tourism.”