Munnar to embrace young, well-trained local guides for adventure tourism

Kerala's adventure tourism sector, especially in Munnar, will have new energy with young, well-trained guides joining the 'force.' The Kerala Institute and Travel Studies (KIITS) and the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS) under the Tourism Department are jointly conducting one-week skill training programmes, under a scheme named 'Earn While You Learn,' to tap into the growing tourism market of the state and help youngsters find a source of income. The first batch of 18 students from Idukki, selected following various physical and other criteria, will undergo training soon.
Those who successfully complete it will be considered for jobs at various adventure parks and establishments with adventure sports activities. For the first time, KITTS is also offering a full-fledged course in adventure tourism, exclusively for students. The institute aims to train around 300 youngsters through it. 

Shortage of professionals
Though Kerala is organising various international mountain cycling, paragliding and surfing events, the state faces a shortage of trained professionals who know the region better. Currently, most of the professionals employed in the field are other-state individuals. Therefore, training programmes like these aim to bring local talent into the fold. There will also be upcoming trainings in water adventure sports like rafting and surfing.
As per reports, Aju T G, physical education faculty of the Munnar Government College, pitched the idea of the training for his college students. According to him, the students of the institution have a good knowledge of the hill station and its immense potential. Many of them also hail from tribal communities and families of plantation workers. Therefore, the course would be a good platform for them to use their knowledge to their advantage.