Surat Next Chapter: Shaping a Sustainable Future for Tourism and Hospitality in Surat Thani
The International School of Tourism, Suratthani Rajabhat University, brought diverse stakeholders together for a public dialogue on the future of tourism and hospitality in Surat Thani, with sustainability at its heart.
From Historic Ban Don to the Tapi River Tourism Vision
On 27 April 2026, the International School of Tourism, Suratthani Rajabhat University, organized “Surat Next Chapter: A Sustainable New Era for Tourism and Hospitality” at SUNNY MARKET, Surat Thani. The event featured the forum “Tourism Transforming Surat: New-Era Tourism and Hospitality Businesses,” held from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Under the theme of revitalizing historic Ban Don through Tapi River tourism, the forum explored how local identity and riverside opportunities could contribute to a more sustainable tourism and service economy.
Different Voices, One Shared Future
The event brought together representatives from government, businesses, the tourism and hospitality sector, academia and younger generations to exchange experiences and perspectives on the city's future.
Discussions covered the direction of tourism development, community development, emerging hospitality businesses and the future workforce, emphasizing the relationship between economic opportunities and local quality of life.
Building Dialogue for Sustainable Development
The forum highlighted the School's role in connecting academic perspectives with practical experience and providing an inclusive platform for ideas about the city's future.
The International School of Tourism extends its appreciation to the speakers, organizers and all participants for contributing their insights to Surat Thani's next chapter.
Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The following identifies relevant SDGs based on the event's themes and activities.
| SDG Goal | Goal | Relevance to the Event |
|---|---|---|
|
SDG 4: Quality Education | Encourages knowledge exchange and learning about sustainable tourism and urban development. |
|
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | Explores opportunities to strengthen tourism and hospitality businesses and the local economy. |
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SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Connects the revitalization of historic Ban Don and Tapi River tourism with sustainable urban development. |
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SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | Brings together government, businesses, tourism stakeholders, academics and younger generations. |
