The board of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA), led by its president, Sebastian Frankenberger, is currently in Cyprus to advance international training programmes and discuss industry developments.
The WFTGA board met with Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis on Monday, accompanied by representatives from the Cyprus Tourist Guides Association.
The meeting coincided with the operation of the WFTGA’s International Training Centre in Nicosia, which is hosting “Train the Trainer” and “International Train the Trainer” programmes from November 17 to December 1, 2024.
In a statement, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, a major sponsor of the training centre, underscored the importance of tour guide training.
Welcoming the WFTGA delegation, Koumis said that “the ministry recognises the critical role of tour guides, who perform invaluable work in every destination”.
“Their profession cannot be replaced by any technological application, and they will always have an active role in connecting visitors with local experiences,” he added.
Frankenberger highlighted the modern challenges faced by tour guides, which are addressed through the WFTGA’s training initiatives.
“Our goal is to ensure the sector can adapt to contemporary, demanding conditions,” he said, praising the Nicosia-based Training Centre as a “model centre” offering high-quality education.
He also stressed the need for proper training, agreeing with Koumis that “tour guides can play a vital role in showcasing and promoting the unique experiences each destination offers”.
The discussions also touched on broader issues within the tourism ecosystem, such as the growing role of technology, the need for a green transition, and the importance of ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
