Tourism (along with its allied sectors such as hospitality, travel, events and heritage) is considered one of the largest service sectors contributing to the economy, society, and environment. Prior to the pandemic, tourism accounted for 10.3% of all jobs (334 million) and 10.4% of global Gross domestic product (GDP) (US$ 10 trillion) in 2019. In 2022, sector contributed 7.6% to global GDP and 22 million new jobs (WTTC, 2024). Tourism is expected to continue its growth in the post pandemic times. As per the World Travel & Tourism Councils (WTTC) ten-year forecast puts, industry is expected to grow at a rate of 5.8% annually, while global GDP grows at just 2.7%, leading to 126 million new jobs by 2032. In 2022 India was one of the top 10 countries, generating almost 200 billion US$ of travel and tourism to GDP worldwide (Statista, 2024). Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in India in 2021 was 178 billion US$ (Statista, 2024).
The SIPAS project brings together a diverse consortium of industry leaders, academic institutions, and innovation hubs. These members collaborate to drive sustainability and technological advancements in the sector through research, best practice sharing, and skill development. By leveraging strategic industry partnerships, the consortium aims to enhance digital transformation, eco-friendly practices, and workforce upskilling, ensuring long-term resilience and competitiveness in tourism, hospitality, and related services.
The European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), an executive agency of the European Commission (EU), is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. Established in January 2006, EACEA manages funding programs related to education, culture, media, sports, youth, citizenship, and humanitarian aid.
The SIPAS project is meticulously designed to integrate various activities that ensure consistency between objectives, methodology, activities, budget, and its implementation. To achieve the above outcome the SIPAS Project is divided into Seven (7) Work Packages as listed below.
Pro-active engagements of Academia and Industry Stakeholders
Implementation of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies for tourism and service sector
Implementation of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies for tourism and service sector
Impact and Dissemination of the project results
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