In the consolidation phase of the program supporting the evolution of ecodestinations we added an educational component that seeks to develop a curriculum for schools in four geographical areas of tourist importance, the first being the Transylvanian Hills and Èšara Dornelor. The process is implemented by ecotourism associations in partnership with an organization experienced in educational programs, with administrators of protected areas, local schools and county school inspectorates. The program is promoted as an optional curriculum in schools in the four ecodestinations.
CONTEXT
RAF has been investing strategically in the development of ecotourism since 2014. Previous grants have enabled RAF partners to: (1) establish and consolidate seven ecotourism destinations; (2) integrate the ecotourism destinations into a national network, enabling peer learning and national and international promotion; (3) contribute to the national process of developing tourism policy; and (4) launch customized programs to ensure financial sustainability, a key condition for achieving long-term sustainability of the destinations.
Starting in 2023, an educational component was introduced in four ecotourism destinations, involving the development and implementation of Ecotourism Education school programs in lower secondary schools, so that children understand and appreciate the potential of the area in which they live and the importance of healthy local development—for themselves, for their community, and for the entire ecotourism destination.
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STRATEGY
EXPECTED RESULTS
- Teacher’s Manual and Student Workbook developed for Țara Dornelor, Colinele Transilvaniei, Țara Hațegului, and Maramureș
- Ecotourism education introduced in at least 50% of schools in the four destinations
- 100 ecotourism educators trained
- 2,000 students will become familiar with the natural and cultural values of the destinations and will understand their contribution to the sustainable development of the region