Sentosa Development Corporation & STIC Travel Group collaborate to launch immersive sustainability-focused educational programmes – ET TravelWorld

Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and STIC Travel Group (STIC) have partnered to introduce innovative educational programmes designed to position Sentosa as a sustainable destination for Indian students. The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during ITB Asia 2024, aimed at fostering awareness around sustainability while offering immersive learning experiences.

Under the year-long collaboration, Indian students will explore Sentosa’s diverse ecosystems through hands-on activities that emphasize sustainability principles, environmental conservation, and global sustainable development goals. The MoU seeks to transform Sentosa into a “living classroom,” encouraging students to engage with nature and understand how eco-friendly practices can drive positive change in their own communities.

Central to the partnership is the launch of the Unchartered Sentosa programme in November 2024. The initiative will provide students with the opportunity to experience marine conservation, native wildlife exploration, and the application of sustainable tourism practices. Highlights of the programme include:

– Intertidal exploration of the Southern Shores to understand coastal ecosystems.
– Nature walks along Serapong and Imbiah Trail to discover local flora and fauna.
– An Amazing Race adventure across Sentosa and St. John’s Island, promoting responsible consumption.
– Ocean survival skills workshops at Lazarus Island.
– Eco tours of sustainable attractions such as Siloso Beach Resort, Skyline Luge, and Sentosa’s Cable Car system.

Building a global perspective on sustainability
Isha Goyal, CEO & Executive Director, STIC Travel Group, emphasised the significance of this collaboration: “Our partnership with SDC aligns perfectly with STIC’s mission to offer innovative and meaningful travel experiences. By combining educational tourism with Sentosa’s sustainable practices, we’re equipping Indian students with practical knowledge that they can bring back to their communities.”The partnership will not only enhance the students’ global perspectives but also strengthen Sentosa’s position as a hub for sustainable tourism. SDC’s sustainability approach includes eco-friendly practices in visitor activities, accommodation, transportation, and dining, making it the first island in Asia to receive the Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification.

Strengthening educational tourism between India & Singapore
With India being a key source market for Sentosa, the initiative is expected to boost educational tourism, providing longer, more meaningful stays for visitors. Thien Kwee Eng, CEO of SDC, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “This partnership represents a significant milestone in promoting sustainable tourism through education. We are excited to offer students hands-on experiences in environmental stewardship, creating itineraries that showcase Sentosa’s commitment to sustainability.”

Through this initiative, Sentosa and STIC Travel Group are set to create an engaging platform for Indian students to gain practical experience and build awareness of sustainability while contributing to the growing trend of educational travel.