THE IMPACT OF DIGITALIZATION ON TOURISM EDUCATION: ENHANCING WORKFORCE COMPETENCIES FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of digitalization on tourism education and how it enhances workforce competencies for the digital age. A quantitative methodology was employed, utilizing an online survey distributed to 62 respondents, including students, teachers, and professionals in tourism, to gather insights on digital skills and educational adaptations in the sector. The findings reveal that digitalization has significantly transformed tourism education, with respondents emphasizing the importance of digital tools, AI, and personalized services. The originality of this study lies in its exploration of emerging digital competencies required in the tourism workforce and its contribution to understanding how educational institutions can adapt to the evolving digital demands. It highlights the need for continuous skill development, digital literacy, and the integration of advanced technologies in tourism education to ensure competitiveness in the modern industry.