Portugal has enormous cultural wealth, enchanting landscapes and a tradition of hospitality that is growing in popularity in the tourism industry. However, this growth brings with it a serious problem: a shortage of qualified specialists. In this context, the European Union (EU) is becoming a fundamental player in skills development, playing a vital role in the development of the Portuguese tourism industry.
The relevance of tourism in Portugal goes beyond mere economic contribution, as it also represents a vital custodian of the country’s culture and heritage. The current scenario demonstrates the growing demand for quality tourism experiences, highlighting the urgent need for trained professionals in various fields of tourism.
The shortage of skilled workers is not only a problem for Portugal, but also reflects a wider problem within the European Union.
Programs and initiatives promoted by the European Union
In this context, the European Union has concrete measures to address this skills gap. The European Social Fund has an investment of €99.3 billion.dedicated to resources for employment, social inclusion, education and skills development. The NextGenerationEU plan allocates €17.8 billion for adult education.which is an important investment to stimulate the growth of the tourism sector after the pandemic.
The EU offers funded training programs that specifically meet the needs of the tourism industry and provide professional development opportunities. For people under 30 years of age, Guarantee of Youth offers training opportunities in various professions., including those related to tourism. This comprehensive approach aims not only to close the skills gap, but also to create clear pathways for young people entering the labor market.
In addition, programs such as InovinterABOUT UPskill And Eurodesk has valuable initiatives that go beyond empowering people with digital skills., important in the modern tourism context, but also providing information on opportunities to travel, study and work in Europe. All information and programs can be found on the website From rights to deeds, designed to raise awareness of the social rights promoted by the EU, among which skills development plays a special role.
Skill development is critical
Skill development is becoming the foundation that underpins sustainable growth and innovation in any sector, and the tourism industry is no exception. In a dynamic and competitive scenario where tourists’ expectations are constantly changing, acquiring and improving skills becomes crucial.
Modern tourism is heavily influenced by technology. Developing digital skills allows professionals to stay on top of the latest trends, while also driving innovation in marketing strategies, booking management and online experiences.
Developing tourism management skills allows professionals to effectively manage complex operations as well as implement sustainable practices. In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, sustainable tourism is becoming not just a preference, but a necessity, and qualified professionals are needed to lead the movement.
The tourism sector is global in nature. ABOUT development of skills, such as those promoted by the Erasmus+ programprovides an international perspective and deep understanding of the tourism needs and expectations of different cultures, strengthening Portugal’s position as a welcoming and inclusive destination.
The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of flexibility and the ability to adapt. Investment in skills, supported by EU resources, gives tourism professionals the opportunity to meet unforeseen challenges, such as recovery from the pandemic, ensuring the sustainability of the sector.
Recognizing and emphasizing the importance of skills development, the European Union is committed to promoting the individual development of professionals, as well as strengthening the infrastructure needed to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Portugal’s tourism industry. Investing in skills is not just a short-term strategy, it is a commitment to long-term growth and excellence in the tourism experience. Ultimately, this is an investment in a bright and successful future for the Portuguese tourism industry.
This content was created entirely by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.
Source: CM Jornal
I’m Dave Martin, and I’m an experienced journalist working in the news industry. As a part of my work, I write for 24 News Reporters, covering mostly sports-related topics. With more than 5 years of experience as a journalist, I have written numerous articles on various topics to provide accurate information to readers.