The IX Annual EATSA conference, co-hosted by IHM-A, proved to be a pivotal event, uniting global minds and fostering progress in the realm of sustainable tourism

The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM-A) co-hosted the IX Annual Conference organized by the Euro-Asia Tourism Studies Association (EATSA). This prestigious gathering took place at the IHM-A campus on September 15th, 2023, and was orchestrated by the Department of Tourism and Hospitality at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University. The central theme of the conference was "Tourism and Sustainable Development Goals: Introspection and Prognosis."

EATSA, renowned for fostering academic connections between Europe and Asia in the fields of tourism, hospitality, and recreation, brought together scholars, researchers, and industry practitioners from around the world for an enlightening three-day conference.

The conference commenced with keynote addresses delivered by distinguished research scholars, including: Dr. Dimitrios Buhalis, Director of the eTourism Lab at Bournemouth University Business School, United Kingdom; Dr. Mostafa Rasoolimanesh, Director of the Sustainable Tourism Lab at Taylor's University, Malaysia; Dr. Tamara Ratz, Professor of Tourism and Head of the Tourism Department at Kodolányi János University, Hungary; Dr. Kevser Çınar, Associate Professor of Tourism Management from Necmettin Erbakan University, Turkey; and Dr. Desmond Wee, Academic Dean of International Tourism Management and Professor of Tourism at CBS International Business School, Germany.

Following these insightful presentations, attendees engaged in dynamic question-and-answer sessions, promoting valuable dialogue and discussion. A focal point of the conference was the series of technical sessions during which participants shared their research papers. These sessions explored a diverse range of topics, encompassing industry innovation and infrastructure, the environment, digital transformation, heritage, tourism education, and more. This comprehensive scope underscores the intricate and wide-reaching implications of sustainable tourism across various sectors.

The conference served as a platform to recognise and celebrate the collaborative endeavours of all participants in advancing the discourse on sustainable tourism. Dr. Madhuri Sawant, Director of the International Centre for Buddhist Tourism and Assistant Professor, Coordinator Research & Consultancy in the Department of Tourism Administration at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, conveyed her optimism regarding the future of tourism. She emphasised the potential for positive change through research, responsible practices, and collaborative efforts.