NTUC LearningHub and NATAS have teamed up to launch Singapore’s first Certified Travel Professional (CTP) Programme, an innovative initiative aimed at providing travel professionals with the essential skills to excel in a fast-changing industry. This landmark collaboration, formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding signed at the NATAS Travel Fair 2024, represents a major advancement in the professionalization of Singapore’s travel sector.
The Certified Travel Professional (CTP) Programme is the first certification of its kind in Singapore’s travel industry, tailored for both new entrants and seasoned professionals. The programme’s comprehensive curriculum is designed to address the diverse needs of the travel workforce, with a strong focus on Sales and Marketing Strategies, Sustainability, Emerging Technology, and Service Experience Excellence. Through this initiative, NTUC LearningHub and NATAS aim to elevate the standards of service and innovation within the sector, ensuring that Singapore’s travel industry remains competitive on a global scale.
The three-year collaboration between NTUC LearningHub and NATAS is poised to transform professional training within the travel industry. By merging NTUC LearningHub’s expertise in workforce development with NATAS’ broad network of travel agencies, the CTP Programme will be instrumental in equipping travel professionals to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving market.
The programme features a structured learning path that includes a blend of core modules, general electives, and specialised electives. This approach allows participants to build a strong foundation in essential travel industry skills while also tailoring their learning experience to their specific career goals. Participants will complete three modules to achieve certification, with options to specialize in Corporate Travel, Leisure Travel, or a combination of both. The certification, issued by NATAS, requires recertification every 18 months, ensuring that professionals stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies.
This initiative not only fosters growth and innovation in Singapore’s travel sector but also aligns with NATAS’ broader strategy to elevate the industry’s quality and professionalism. By promoting a culture of ongoing learning and adaptation, the CTP Programme will facilitate the creation of new roles and the expansion of existing ones, addressing the evolving needs of the market.
NTUC LearningHub’s CEO, Mr. Jeremy Ong, expressed the organization’s commitment to advancing the skills of Singapore’s tourism workforce, emphasizing that this partnership with NATAS reflects their dedication to fostering a resilient and innovative travel industry. NATAS President, Mr. Steven Ler, highlighted that the CTP Programme represents a new era of excellence for the sector, positioning Singapore as a leading global travel destination supported by a highly skilled workforce.
As the travel industry grapples with the challenges of the modern market, the CTP Programme is set to become a vital resource for professionals aiming to advance their careers and support the sustained success of Singapore’s tourism sector. The pilot phase of the programme is slated for March 2025, with NTUC LearningHub overseeing the modules and NATAS providing the certifications. This initiative is anticipated to establish a new standard for professional development in the travel industry, leading to a more dynamic and resilient future.
