ITS strategic plan 2026-2030 to strengthen skills and quality in tourism sector

The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) recently launched its Strategic Plan 2026-2030, From Consolidation to Mediterranean Excellence, setting out a clear vision to strengthen the Institute as a modern, innovative institution that remains closely aligned with the evolving needs of Malta’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Addressing those present during the launch, Minister for Tourism, Jo Etienne Abela, described the strategy as an important investment in the future of Malta’s tourism sector and the professionals who will lead it in the years ahead.

“The Institute of Tourism Studies plays a central role in developing the skilled workforce that underpins Malta’s tourism industry. This Strategic Plan provides a clear roadmap for strengthening the Institute through continued investment in education, infrastructure, digitalisation, governance and academic excellence, ensuring it remains internationally competitive and responsive to the needs of the industry,” said Minister Abela.

The Minister added that the strategy is fully aligned with Malta Vision 2050, supporting Government’s commitment to building a tourism sector driven by quality, skills and value-added services. He also highlighted the importance of continuing to invest in people, noting that the quality of Malta’s tourism product is ultimately shaped by the professionalism and expertise of those working within the industry.

ITS CEO, Mr Pierre Fenech, said, “this Strategic Plan builds on the strong momentum of our previous plan, through which we successfully delivered the majority of our key performance indicators. It reflects not only our achievements to date, but also our ambition to go further. While setting bold and forward-looking objectives, we remain confident in our vision, our people, and our ability to deliver meaningful, measurable and lasting results.”

ITS Chairman, Mr Edward Zammit, said, “this marks an important milestone in the continued evolution of the Institute of Tourism Studies. It provides a clear framework for strengthening our academic standing, enhancing operational excellence and expanding our international profile. The Board of Governors fully supports this vision and is committed to ensuring that ITS continues to innovate, build meaningful partnerships, and reinforce its position as a leading institution for tourism, hospitality and culinary education in the Mediterranean.”

The launch also featured a panel discussion involving representatives from the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA), the Association of Catering Establishments (ACE), the Gozo Tourism Association, the Malta Chamber of SMEs and The Malta Chamber. The discussion reinforced the importance of continued collaboration between education and industry in developing the next generation of tourism professionals.

The strategy will guide the Institute’s development over the next five years, strengthening academic quality, industry collaboration, research, innovation and internationalisation, while continuing to support the development of a highly skilled workforce that meets the evolving needs of Malta’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The launch was attended by members of the ITS Board of Governors, management, staff, representatives from the tourism industry and other stakeholders.

Photo: ITS