BelSU Hosts Offsite International Conference on Tourism Industry Development

Held at the historic Yablonovo fortress city, which beautifully blends cultural heritage with contemporary tourism trends, the conference was inaugurated by Associate Professor Irina Bogomazova, the acting head of the BelSU Department of International Tourism and Hotel Business. Her opening remarks set a collaborative tone for the event.

Evgeny Ershov, head of the Belgorod Tourist Information Centre, welcomed participants with an encouraging speech, highlighting the significance of hosting such events at tourist sites.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the potential of the Belgorod region, and engaging the younger generation is vital for preserving our historical memory,” he stated.

Among the many insightful presentations, those delivered by leading industry experts stood out. Honoured Professor Anna Aleksandrova from Lomonosov Moscow State University provided a comprehensive analysis of international tourist destinations amid the global crises of the 21st century. She underscored how these challenges are reshaping the tourism landscape and necessitating innovative development strategies.

Adding to the discourse, Associate Professor Veronika Dombrovskaya from Tver State University offered evidence-based recommendations for adapting tourist destinations during times of instability and uncertainty. Meanwhile, Professor Olga Slinkova from BelSU shared her research findings on how traditional Russian values are perceived by today’s students.

The historical and cultural setting of the conference fostered a unique atmosphere conducive to dialogue and collaboration. Participants engaged in vibrant discussions that not only exchanged experiences but also explored innovative approaches to strengthen tourism across Russia.

A key focus of the conference was its practical applications. A student scientific expedition was organised for those majoring in Tourism and Service, allowing young researchers to investigate the region's tourism potential firsthand. Such initiatives play a crucial role in the educational process, enhancing the competencies of future tourism specialists.