AUA TRDP Training Aims to Boost Tourism in Vayots Dzor

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VAYOTS DZOR, Armenia — On June 24-25, the American University of Armenia (AUA) successfully completed a two-day training course in Vayots Dzor, Armenia. The training was attended by individuals from the tourism sector. It achieved its objective of enhancing participants’ skills and knowledge through a specially designed course in Tourism Product Development and Social Media Marketing. The training was organized by the AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP) in collaboration with the College of Business and Economics (CBE) to bring to beneficiaries in Vayots Dzor sector-specific professional development.

Eighteen beneficiaries participated in this two-day program taught by Zarmine Zeytuntsyan, director of the CBE Graduate Certificate in Hotel and Hospitality Management program. The course provided the participants with broad knowledge and expertise relevant to the industry, covering some of the unique features of regional tourism while exploring new opportunities within the evolving industry. The training also focused on tourism product development and approached to leveraging social media marketing strategies to upgrade the quality of tourism products and services.

According to the participants, the training was highly beneficial and provided valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices within the tourism sector. Equipped with enhanced knowledge and skills, the beneficiaries acknowledged that they are now better prepared to meet the demand and expectations of discerning travelers.

Moreover, the training provided enhanced networking and collaboration among TRDP beneficiaries in Vayots Dzor. During this training, TRDP Field Operations Director Zorair Kirakosian also led interactive sessions and group activities that boosted the participants’ exchange of ideas and experiences. 

Alvina Nersisyan, a guesthouse owner from the Aghavnadzor village, expressed her satisfaction with the training: “We not only learned valuable techniques to enhance the products we offer but have also formed meaningful connections with other local entrepreneurs. This will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our businesses.”

Since its establishment in 2006, the TRDP program has implemented many such trainings. It remains committed to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in the regions and fostering new business opportunities for enhanced community impact. 

The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program provides education, funding, and consultations to existing and startup businesses in the rural communities of Shirak, Tavush, Vayots Dzor, Gegharkunik, Lori, and Ararat provinces of Armenia, as well as in Artsakh and Javakhk (Georgia). The list of eligible communities and eligibility criteria can be found here. The program continues to accept applications for the next round of training.