The PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy during his visits to Solomon Islands early this year to meet with tourism sectors in the country

THE Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is going to stage its first PATA Human Capacity Building Programme in the Maldives for its 800 member countries in July.

Solomon Islands joined PATA early this year, opening the gateway to a world of opportunity to boost tourism.

The event is built under a theme Exploring the Art of Storytelling begins on July 12—13 at Travel Trade Maldives in Dharubabruge, Maldives.

The PATA CEO, Dr Mario Hardy said, “PATA’s strategy for human capital development is a key strand in the association’s mission, striving constantly to provide opportunities for local communities to share benefits of tourism.”

“It is also an effective method of broadcasting the horizons of tourism industry professionals beyond their day-to-day tasks,” Dr Hardy said.

The President for Maldives Association of Travel and Tour Operators (MATATO), Mr Abdulla Ghiyaz said they are excited about the partnership programme with PATA and its membership countries worldwide for developing tourism.

“The Human Capacity Building Programme and line-up of facilitators are impressive, and this definitely gives us great opportunity for industry to explore their creative potentials and get marketing teams refresh new ideas,” Mr Ghiyaz said.

Mr Ghiyaz said they look forward for the event, and continue their partnership with PATA through more joint endeavours.

PATA’s network of talented industry leaders worldwide, the programme designs and implements customised training workshops for diverse organisations including government agencies, NGOs, education institution and private sectors.

Recently, Solomon Islands tourism labelled as the worst tourism website in the region, and its membership with PATA will look at through involvement in capacity trainings and seminars.