The first phase of the Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop on HHS (Health Hygiene and Sanitation) Protocols for Tourism Operators organized by TRTF Nepal in collaboration and technical support of GIZ and GATE Foundation concluded today in Dhangadi, Sudurpaschim Province. The initiative was started from Butwal on 2nd of February 2021.  

The training program elaborated on the different facets of HHS Protocols and Sustainable Destination Management with responsible practices among 55 Local Champions from 11 municipalities of 5 districts in 3 provinces of west Nepal who are assigned the responsibilities to further impart the training knowledge and their learnings to 2750 SMEs local small and media tourism service providers in the region. 

While addressing the closing remarks, the TRTF Nepal Coordinator, Deepak Raj Joshi, urged the trainers to share their best knowledge and skills inspiring SMEs to embrace compliance with the HHS Protocols. He added, "This TOT program on HHS Protocols is a special initiation to position Nepal as one of the safest and most promising destinations in terms of compliance with health, hygienic, and food safety aspects, which would only be possible with our joint actions, common understanding, and effective collaboration in this journey." 

Suresh Singh Budal, CEO-PATA Nepal Chapter said, "The disruption by this COVID-19 crisis has compelled us to ensure effective compliance with the HHS protocols by which we can win the trust, confidence, and loyalty of travellers in the source markets; and this is fundamental for the rapid, robust, and responsible recovery of our tourism. This training initiative is a stride towards inspiring SMEs for effective compliance with the HHS protocols in their businesses." 

Bibek Poudel, the Project coordinator extended thanks to all the participants, GIZ, GATE Foundation, TRTF Nepal, and PATA Nepal Chapter for this initiative of utmost necessity. 

TRTF Nepal is willing to collaborate with the concerned authorities and stakeholders in other emerging tourism destinations throughout the country to extend this initiative for the larger benefit of the tourism industry.