Gov’t Preparing Citizens to Seize Opportunities in Tourism

  • Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says Jamaica has proactively prepared its citizens to seize emerging opportunities within the tourism industry. He noted that the ministry has been equipping the populace to take advantage of the myriad opportunities, especially in leadership roles,” he told JIS News.
  • The government has implemented a variety of innovative educational programs aimed at enhancing the skills and qualifications of individuals aspiring to occupy senior positions within the sector. “We recognise that a well-trained workforce is essential for the sustainability and growth of our tourism industry. Our educational programmes are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel and lead in this dynamic field,” he said.
  • He emphasized that the initiatives undertaken by the Ministry and its public agencies have showcased the transformative potential of tourism, generating opportunities for the population and solidifying Jamaica’s status as a “first-rate and first-choice” destination.
  • Additionally, the Tourism Innovation Incubator, established through the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), seeks to identify and cultivate innovative ideas that have the potential to transform Jamaica’s tourism sector. Minister Bartlett noted that this year the program received 222 applications up from the 34 applications submitted in its inaugural year in 2022.
  • Growth in the sector is estimated to have decelerated in Q2 2024 to 0.1% from 6.1% in Q1 and it is expected to have weakened in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. Despite challenges posed by the hurricane, Jamaica’s tourism sector has shown resilience, welcoming more than 105,000 stopover visitors since the reopening of ports. As such, tourism growth could reaccelerate in H2 amid a favourable revision to the US travel advisory in July 2024, coupled with continued efforts from public and private stakeholders to improve the tourism product and appeal to international travellers.

(Source: JIS & NCBCM Research)