Tourism Education for Sustainability: Curriculum Development in Universities of Uzbekistan

Abstract

Uzbekistan’s tourism industry has witnessed significant expansion in recent years, largely fueled by government
initiatives and a surge of global interest in the nation’s unique cultural and historical assets. Yet, this rapid development
brings forth considerable challenges—particularly regarding environmental sustainability, social impacts on local
communities, and the necessity for responsible resource management. In this context, the role of tourism education
becomes increasingly critical, as it equips future professionals with the expertise needed to promote and sustain the
industry’s growth responsibly. This study proposes a comprehensive examination of the current landscape of tourism
education at universities across Uzbekistan. Projecting a qualitative approach, the research features a content analysis
of tourism curricula from institutions, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with faculty members and academic
coordinators. The findings reveal that sustainability concepts are frequently treated superficially, often confined to elective
modules, with limited integration of practical skills, interdisciplinary methods, or a focus on enduring ecological and
cultural preservation. Drawing on established international models, the study proposes a framework designed to embed
sustainability more deeply within tourism education. Key recommendations include the inclusion of core topics such as
green tourism, ethical travel, environmental management, and community-based tourism within foundational courses.
Additionally, the study advocates for expanding faculty development, fostering partnerships with international academic
institutions, and aligning curricula with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).