On April 16, 2024, Bali Tourism Polytechnic (BiTP) was pleased to host 79 students from Breda University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands. The group was warmly welcomed by the Director of BiTP, accompanied by the management team, at the Ganesha Restaurant, where a lunch prepared collaboratively by students and lecturers of the Culinary Arts and Food & Beverage Service Programs was enjoyed.
Following the reception, the Breda University team participated in teaching sessions led by esteemed BiTP faculty, including Dr. Nyoman Gede Dewa Rucika, A.Par., M.M., CHE and Dr. I Gusti Agung Gede Witarsana, S.ST.Par., M.M., CHE. Despite their long journey from Europe, the enthusiasm of the Breda University students to learn about best practices in the development and management of culturally based tourism accommodations was palpable. This educational session was not their first; previously, virtual learning sessions were conducted by Dr. Hanugerah Liestiandre, S.St.Par., M.M. and Ms. Dewa Ayu Lily Dianasari, S.T., M.Si., CHE, focusing on Destination Management and the implementation of the local wisdom philosophy Tri Hita Karana in addressing environmental issues caused by tourism. On April 17, 2024, BITP’s faculty, Dr. Diah Sastri Pitanatri, S.St.Par., M.Par and Anom Hery Suasapha, S.St.Par., M.Par., CHE, facilitated further learning about culturally-based tourism activities and the impact of tourism on community carrying capacity and quality of life. These sessions are expected to deeply enrich the Breda University students’ understanding, providing them with a practical context of Bali’s unique, culturally, and community-based tourism environment.
The culmination of collaboration and friendship between the institutions will be further strengthened at the end of the program on April 29, 2024, with a Joint Seminar. This event will be a melting pot of knowledge, cultural values, and the visions of both institutions.
