Community education and training for tourism: a study of the Tourism Centers of Caminhos do Norte and Vales do São Francisco and Jequitinhonha – MG

Abstract

This article offers a reflection on the education and training of communities for tourism, based on an analysis of data relating to the populations of the Tourism Centers Caminhos do Norte and Vales do São Francisco and Jequitinhonha/MG. It presents an analysis of the relevant aspects in the relationship between education and tourism, related to local development and the valorization of its people. Based on the census data and structured interviews with the local population in these tourism centers, it analyses behavioral aspects of the local population which are relevant to tourism, and the educational needs and strategies aimed at groups within the community. In view of the low levels of formal education and capacities found, the revival of school education proved to be a key element for the development of economic activities in general, particularly tourism. Training in the valorization of individuals, and their cultural heritage, and the in productive inclusion of groups within the local community, were also shown to be fundamental for sustainable tourism in all its forms. Key words: Education, Training, Sustainable Tourism