On 16 October, the UNWTO Western Silk Road University Challenge officially commenced.

Jointly organized by the UNWTO Silk Road Programme of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and ISTHIA – Toulouse School of Tourism, Hospitality Management and Food Studies, University of Toulouse – Jean Jaurès, this project constitutes a novel collaboration with academia that will explore the Western Silk Road tourism potential of France, a country located on the historic Western Silk Road route. 

During the academic year 2017-2018, the students, guided by ISTHIA professors, will analyse the historical involvement of the French territories within the Silk Road network, assess the Silk Road impact on French culture, and prepare an inventory of Western Silk Road heritage in France.

The research will result in a study containing proposals for the development of potential thematic French and cross-border routes and tourism products, including strategies aimed at their branding and sustainable management. 

 Additional information on the training can be accessed here.