October 25, 2024 TnH Global

Sentosa Development Corporation and STIC Travel Group Partner to Launch Unique Immersive Educational Programmes

Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and STIC Travel Group (STIC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to enhance Sentosa’s standing as a sustainable destination in the Indian market. This one-year partnership will seek to create innovative educational experiences targeted at students in India, highlighting Sentosa’s sustainable practices and diverse ecosystems.

The signatories were Michael Ma, Assistant Chief Executive, SDC (seated, left); Isha Goyal, CEO & Executive Director, STIC Travel Group (seated, right). The signing ceremony was witnessed by Chew Tiong Heng, Divisional Director (Business & Experience Development) SDC (standing, left); Anshul Gupta, Manager Product and Operation, STIC Travel Group (standing, right).

The MoU signifies a joint effort to design immersive learning experiences that utilise Sentosa’s unique environment as a living classroom to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainability. These programmes will emphasise key concepts such as the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, carbon footprint reduction and biodiversity conservation.

This partnership builds upon STIC’s broader efforts to boost educational tourism in Singapore by offering Indian students an opportunity to explore Singapore’s heritage, sustainable development initiatives and interactive learning experiences.

CREATING AN IMMERSIVE SUSTAINABILITY ADVENTURE

Central to this partnership is the launch of the “Unchartered Sentosa” tour designed to inspire students to become advocates for positive environmental change in their own communities. Slated to roll out in November 2024, Unchartered Sentosa offers Indian students a hands-on exploration of sustainability principles through a diverse range of activities:

Intertidal exploration of the Southern Shores to learn about marine conservation and coastal ecology
Guided nature walks along Serapong and Imbiah Trail to discover native flora and fauna in Sentosa
Amazing Race adventure on Sentosa and St John’s Island to educate participants on the importance and relevance of responsible consumption
Interactive workshops that equip participants with ocean survival skills at Lazarus Island
Visits to Sentosa’s sustainable attractions such as the Cable Car and Skyline Luge
Eco Tour of Siloso Beach Resort demonstrating real-world applications of sustainable design and green technology

“Our partnership with SDC aligns perfectly with STIC’s mission to offer innovative and meaningful travel experiences,” commented Isha Goyal, CEO, STIC Travel Group. “By combining our expertise in educational tourism with Sentosa’s world-class sustainable practices, we’re creating a truly distinct offering for Indian students. This initiative not only enhances their global perspective but also equips them with practical knowledge about sustainability that they can bring back to their communities.”

ESTABLISHING SENTOSA AS AN EDUCATIONAL HUB FOR SUSTAINABILITY

The MoU is set to strengthen Sentosa’s positioning as a sustainable destination for leisure, business and education. As the first island destination in Asia to be conferred the Global Sustainable Tourism Council – For Destinations certificate, Sentosa is committed to creating robust eco-conscious tourism experiences. SDC’s comprehensive sustainability approach, integrates eco-friendly practices across all visitor touchpoints – leisure activities, accommodation, transport and dining – minimising environmental impact while engaging guests in sustainable initiatives throughout their Sentosa journey.

“This partnership with STIC represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism through education, particularly in this growing segment,” said Thien Kwee Eng, Chief Executive Officer, SDC. “By leveraging Sentosa’s ecological diversity, we’re creating a unique platform for students to gain hands-on experience in environmental stewardship. We look forward to creating unique Sentosa-based itineraries and experiences with STIC that showcase Sentosa’s commitment to sustainability and provide invaluable educational opportunities for students.”

This is expected to boost tourism arrivals from India, Sentosa’s top source market, particularly in the educational travel segment. By offering immersive sustainability-focused experiences, the partnership aims to encourage longer and more meaningful stays on the island.

MOU Signing Ceremony

The MOU was signed at ITB Asia 2024.