A new agreement between Royal Roads University’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management and the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce will create educational experiences for students and tourism opportunities for the region, says a school official.
For a third year, students in RRU’s master degree in tourism management will conduct research in the region that looks at tourism, economic development and transportation.
Once the research is complete, students will present their findings to the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce, district council and tourism officials.
“I’m delighted our students will have opportunities to apply their learning while businesses in the Sooke Region will benefit from the research,” said Royal Roads vice-president academic and provost Stephen Grundy.
“We value our community partnerships as we work together toward common goals.”
In a memorandum of understanding, Royal Roads and the Sooke chamber committed to work together to enhance the business opportunities through tourism research.
Most of the students taking part in the program this year have international backgrounds, Grundy said.
The students will combine visits to the community with classroom work and then make recommendations to the community.
“The community benefits with some fabulous ideas,” Grundy said, noting students gain experience by working in the “real world, with real situations.”
Besides Sooke, RRU’s tourism program has conducted similar programs in Tofino, Victoria and Cumberland.
“The chamber is always impressed with the quality of work produced by Royal Roads students,” said chamber president Kerry Cavers. “We are very excited at the opportunity to partner with the university on initiatives that could greatly benefit our members and businesses within the Sooke region.”
The Sooke project is expected to be concluded by mid-fall.