On April 7, 2025, the Academy of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness hosted an important lecture as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen the connection between education and the tourism industry. The lecture, titled “Partnerships for Skills in Tourism – Framework, Structure, Operational Organization, Management, and Experiences from Various Countries”, was delivered by Mr. Klaus Ehrlich, Secretary General of the European Federation of Rural Tourism and an expert with decades of experience in shaping tourism policies at the European level.

The lecture covered a wide range of topics related to the modern approach to developing skills in the tourism sector, including the structure and functioning of partnerships between educational institutions, the private sector, and public organizations. Special emphasis was placed on international experiences, examples of good practice, and innovative models that can serve as inspiration for improving education and training systems in tourism in Serbia.

Events like this one provide a valuable opportunity for students, professors, and industry professionals to exchange knowledge and ideas, connect with leaders in the field of tourism, and gain insight into current trends and challenges shaping this dynamic industry. The interactive format of the lecture further contributed to the exchange of opinions and deepened discussions on the role of education in creating competent professionals ready to meet the demands of the modern labor market.

We extend our sincere thanks to the distinguished guests from the tourism and education sectors who supported this initiative with their presence and demonstrated a willingness to further strengthen cooperation. Among them were:

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  Milena Aleksić, General Director of “A Hotel”

  
  


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  Prof. Dr. Jovan Popesku, President of CenORT – Center for Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Development

  
  


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  Miodrag Popović, Director of the Tourist Organization of Belgrade

  
  


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  Prof. Georgi Genov, Director of HORES – Association of Hoteliers and Restaurateurs of Serbia

  
  


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  Dejan Veselinov, Owner and Director of “Veselinov Tourism Consulting”

  
  


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  Ljubiša Nešanović, Director of the travel agency “Robinson”

  
  

We also thank all the attending guests from the academic, business, and institutional sectors, whose presence further emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the future development of tourism in Serbia. HTW Academy remains committed to advancing tourism education by connecting with industry practice, promoting international cooperation, and encouraging innovation in both learning and professional development.