In a significant move to bolster the skills and capabilities of professionals in the Singapore travel industry, NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) and the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) have formalized a partnership. This collaboration, announced at the NATAS Travel Fair 2024, aims to support travel agents in adapting to industry changes and fostering a more resilient and innovative travel sector.
The cornerstone of this partnership is the creation of the Certified Travel Professional (CTP) programme. This groundbreaking initiative, developed under a three-year strategic collaboration, is designed to equip both new entrants and seasoned professionals with essential skills. The CTP programme addresses the evolving needs of the travel industry, ensuring professionals are equipped to succeed in a competitive and ever-changing market.
The CTP programme offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored for a wide range of professionals. This includes aspiring travel consultants, experienced agents seeking certification, career changers, and those looking to specialize in niche fields like corporate travel management or eco-tourism. The curriculum features core modules, general electives, and specialized electives, covering crucial areas such as:
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Sales and Marketing Strategies:
Equip participants with effective strategies to attract and retain customers in the competitive travel landscape.*
Sustainability:
Foster understanding and implementation of sustainable practices within the travel industry, contributing to responsible tourism.*
Emerging Technology:
Develop proficiency in leveraging the latest technological advancements to enhance travel experiences and operations.*
Wellness:
Enhance knowledge and skills to cater to the growing demand for wellness-focused travel experiences.*
Service Experience Excellence:
Equip participants with skills to deliver exceptional customer service and create memorable travel experiences.To achieve CTP Certification, participants must complete three modules: a mandatory core module on effective strategies for travel professionals, an elective module covering topics such as service excellence, sustainability, or technology, and a specialized elective focusing on either corporate travel or leisure travel. Successful participants will earn the title of Certified Travel Professional in their chosen specialization, with recertification required 18 months after program completion, involving two additional elective modules.
The CTP programme will be delivered by a panel of experienced travel industry professionals, with physical sessions designed to encourage effective training and networking among participants. The pilot launch of the programme is scheduled for March 2025, with an initial cohort of 10 learners. NTUC LHUB will manage the programme, while NATAS will oversee the certification process.
This partnership aligns with NTUC LHUB’s commitment to developing programmes that elevate the professionalism of the tourism workforce. “NTUC LearningHub is honoured to lead the way in providing training for Singapore’s tourism sector in emerging and in-demand skills, reflecting our strong commitment to working alongside industry leaders, government bodies, and the Labour Movement. This partnership with NATAS is well-aligned with our goal to develop programmes aimed at elevating the professionalism of the tourism workforce in the evolving economy. Through these efforts, we aspire to help Singapore become a premier tourism destination supported by a workforce that continues to innovate and revitalise itself,” said Jeremy Ong, CEO of NTUC LearningHub.
The CTP programme represents a significant milestone for the travel sector in Singapore. “The Certified Travel Professional (CTP) programme represents a significant milestone for the travel sector in Singapore, as it heralds a new era of excellence and resilience for the industry. Through our collaboration with NTUC LearningHub, NATAS is confident that the CTP programme will not only elevate the standards of service and professionalism within the travel industry, but also support the continuous growth and innovation that is demanded to position Singapore as a leading global travel destination,” said Steven Ler, President of NATAS.
