IST Empowers Tourism and Service Students with AI Smart Skills for the Digital Future
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the tourism and service industries, digital literacy and practical AI skills are becoming increasingly important for future professionals. The International School of Tourism (IST), Suratthani Rajabhat University, organized the “AI Smart Skills for Tourism & Service Industry” workshop to strengthen students' digital competencies and prepare them for the evolving workplace.
On October 21, 2026, the International School of Tourism (IST), Suratthani Rajabhat University, organized the first workshop, “AI Smart Skills for Tourism & Service Industry,” under the project “IST Future Skills: Developing AI Skills and Professionalism for the Tourism and Service Industry.” The workshop was held in the Multimedia Room and Banburi Room at the Patcharaphakdeechot Building, Suratthani Rajabhat University.
The workshop aimed to enhance students' knowledge and understanding of artificial intelligence and its practical applications in education, digital content creation, and professional activities. The activity was designed to help students develop essential digital skills relevant to the rapidly changing tourism and service sectors.
Learning AI with Computer Science Experts
The workshop featured two guest speakers from Suratthani Rajabhat University: Ajarn Asok Srisawat, Computer Science Program, Faculty of Science and Technology, and Ajarn Kannika Kaewchuea, Computer Science Program, Faculty of Education. Both speakers shared knowledge and practical approaches to applying artificial intelligence in learning and professional environments.
Participants were divided into two groups, with Group 1 attending the session in the Multimedia Room and Group 2 in the Banburi Room. The training combined theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, allowing students to explore AI tools and apply new skills to different learning activities.
From Prompt Engineering to AI-powered Digital Content Creation
The workshop introduced participants to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and explored its applications in the tourism and service industries. Students gained an understanding of how emerging technologies can support business operations, communication, and service delivery in the digital age.
One of the key learning activities focused on Prompt Engineering, enabling students to practice writing effective instructions for AI tools. Participants also explored how AI can support research, learning, and everyday workplace tasks.
In addition, students practiced using artificial intelligence to develop promotional materials, digital content, and presentations. These skills are particularly relevant to marketing communication and business promotion in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The workshop also introduced practical AI applications in aviation, tourism, and service-related business scenarios, helping participants connect digital knowledge with their future professional fields.
Building Future Skills for Tomorrow's Tourism Professionals
The workshop reflected IST's commitment to developing future-ready graduates equipped with digital literacy, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and essential professional competencies. Through practice-oriented learning, students were encouraged to explore how technology can support their academic and professional development.
By integrating AI knowledge into tourism and service education, IST aims to prepare students for technological changes and strengthen their readiness for internships, work-integrated learning, and future employment in an increasingly digital global industry.
SDG Report & Relevant Goals
This activity aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and strengthening students' skills for future employment.
| SDG Goal | Target Description | Connection to Project |
|---|---|---|
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Goal 4: Quality Education
Target 4.4
|
Enhances students' technical, vocational, and digital competencies through practical AI training, including prompt engineering and AI-powered content creation. The workshop supports the development of skills relevant to future employment and lifelong learning. |
|
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Goal 8:
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Target 8.5
|
Strengthens students' professional readiness by developing practical AI capabilities relevant to aviation, tourism, and service-related occupations. The activity supports their preparation for productive employment in the digital economy. |
The SDG connections are based on the workshop's stated objectives and activities, rather than measured employment outcomes.