The Asia-Pacific region has seen increasing need for a platform to
exchange information and expertise on human resources development for
the tourism sector since early 1990s. A regional network to strengthen
institutional links among tourism training institutes was considered
the most practical mechanism to meet this demand.
The secretariat of UNESCAP established the Network of Asia-Pacific Education and Training Institutions in Tourism (APETIT) in 1997 to promote regional cooperation in human resources development for tourism. Currently, 211 education and training
institutes and national tourism organizations in 42 countries and areas
are participating in its activities.
Our efforts in this area is also reflected in the implementation of
the Plan of Action for Sustainable Tourism Development
in Asia and the Pacific, Phase II (PASTA 2006-2012) which put human
resources development as one of its thrust areas.
