Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 14 March 2025: On Friday, 7 March 2025, in recognition of Education Week, the Department of Tourism Regulations facilitated an educational engagement for Clement Howell High School students, providing an in-depth exploration of tourism regulations and hospitality sector standards. This initiative was executed in collaboration with Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa and TKCA, offering students hands-on learning opportunities that underscored the significance of sustainability, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance in the tourism industry.
The programme commenced with an official briefing at the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) building in the Lower Bight. Director Avi Adams delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the mandate of the Department of Tourism Regulations, including an overview of the Together Individuals Delivering, Excellent, Service (TIDES) training. The session provided insights into the structure of regulatory training, the responsibilities of tourism ambassadors, and the critical role of accommodation licensing and inspections in safeguarding the sector.
Following the briefing, students proceeded to the Clevelander Villa, a luxury property managed by TKCA, where they participated in a practical demonstration of property inspection procedures. The Department’s Quality Assurance Team, represented by Kevin Lightbourne and Claudenise Jean, guided students through the inspection process, highlighting key regulatory compliance standards. Property Manager Jerry Lingat provided additional expertise on operational standards, property maintenance, and adherence to inspection protocols.
The final segment of the engagement took place at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa, where Public Relations Manager Orville Morgan provided students with a comprehensive overview of the operational requirements necessary to uphold the resort and the country’s status as a premier tourism destination. Students were given a guided tour of the resort’s facilities and received first-hand exposure to the standards of excellence required in the hospitality industry.
Commenting on the initiative, Director Adams stated:
“The Department of Tourism Regulations is committed to developing future tourism professionals through targeted educational engagements. Strong partnerships with world-class tourism providers such as Beaches Turks and Caicos and TKCA have made initiatives such as this possible and provide students with direct exposure to the tourism sector and the regulatory framework that keeps it going. We look forward to hosting similar initiatives to strengthen the intersection between education and tourism.”
Echoing these sentiments, Ms Shaw, the lead teacher of the Tourism Club at Clement Howell High School, remarked:
“The Tourism Club had an invaluable experience participating in the activities coordinated by the Department of Tourism Regulations for Education Week. We anticipate future collaborations will enhance students’ understanding of tourism regulations and hospitality industry standards.”