Bridging Theory and Practice: Participant Perceptions of the Wenatour Specialization Programme in Training Sustainable Tourism Managers

N. Orio; N.T.D. Vu; A.N. Candrea; R.G. Albu; D. Zilio

doi:10.31926/but.es.2026.19.68.1.3

Authors

N. Orio University of Padova, Italy
N.T.D. Vu University of Padova, Italy
A.N. Candrea Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9214-3847
R.G. Albu Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5720-3808
D. Zilio University of Padova, Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31926/but.es.2026.19.68.1.3

Keywords:

Sustainable Tourism, WeNaTour Project, Destination Management, Educational tourism, Experiential Learning, Erasmus

Abstract

his paper evaluates the effectiveness of the WeNaTour (Welfare, Nature, and Innovation in Tourism) EU Specialisation Programme in training the next generation of Sustainable Managers for Tourism Destinations. The Erasmus+-funded curriculum integrates foundational coursework with an intensive, practical mobility experience across Austria and Italy, emphasising community well-being and environmental preservation. This unique specialisation provided advanced training, including GSTC certification principles, through hands-on fieldwork and workshops with industry experts. Focusing on the opinions of the 16 selected participants, this research finds that the blended approach is highly valued for its success in bridging theoretical knowledge with tangible, practical skills. Furthermore, it highlights that the program effectively cultivates the interdisciplinary competency and holistic perspective, essential for responsible destination management, affirming the project's relevance for future sustainable tourism education.