KATHMANDU, November 18 -- A landmark Human Capital Development (HCD) Workshop on "AI for Tourism & Hospitality Excellence" kicked off on November 17 in Kathmandu, bringing together 60 professionals from Nepal’s travel and tourism industry. The two-day workshop, organized jointly by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Nepal Chapter, explores the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of Nepal's tourism sector.
In his welcome address, Khem Lakai, Chairperson of PATA Nepal Chapter, emphasized the importance of upskilling Nepal's tourism workforce with cutting-edge digital competencies, particularly AI to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Dipak Raj Joshi, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board, delivered the inaugural remarks, urging all participants to fully immerse themselves in the workshop’s content by engaging actively with the instructor, interacting openly, and applying the insights gained to their professional practices.
The session was moderated by Mr. Suresh Budal, CEO of PATA Nepal Chapter, who encouraged open discussions and an interactive learning environment to help participants grasp the practical applications of AI in their respective roles.
The workshop is led by Prof. Faye Hao, Assistant Professor at the School of Hotel & Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Prof. Hao’s session covered core AI concepts, including AI models, ethical implications, and real-world applications across various tourism and hospitality sectors—from hotels and resorts to airlines, destination management, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) operations.
Participants gained hands-on experience with AI tools and technologies that can streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and drive data-driven decision-making in tourism businesses. Prof. Hao emphasized that AI is not just a tool, but a transformative force that will define the next generation of professionals in tourism and hospitality.
With a strong turnout from Nepal's travel trade, the workshop is expected to be a catalyst for innovation, helping participants not only understand AI’s potential but also how to integrate these technologies into their everyday practices to build a smarter, more resilient tourism sector in Nepal.
