Bangladesh, with its abundant natural beauty, boasts a diverse landscape that includes rivers, coasts, beaches, archaeological sites, religious places, hills, forests, waterfalls, and tea gardens. Notably, three world heritage sites—the Sundarbans, the historic mosque city of Bagerhat, and the ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur—exist within its borders.

The current status of the tourism and hospitality industry in Bangladesh reveals both potential and challenges. In 2012, approximately 600,000 tourists visited Bangladesh to experience its natural beauty. The total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP was 4.4%, while it accounted for 3.8% of employment and 1.5% of investment in 2013. The Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) oversees the tourism sector under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. However, due to certain limitations, Bangladesh has not yet been widely recognized as a tourist destination.

Several attractive tourist spots beckon travelers. The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is home to the elusive Bengal tiger and diverse wildlife. The historic mosque city of Bagerhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts impressive mosques and historical significance. Similarly, the ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, feature ancient Buddhist architecture.

Tourism significantly contributes to the economy. As a service industry, tourism plays a crucial role in driving economic growth. Factors such as convenient transport, information availability, and effective marketing techniques influence its development. With increases in disposable income and leisure time, the number of tourists is expected to rise. Over the past five years, the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Rajshahi has significantly contributed to the remarkable progress of the tourism and hospitality industry in Bangladesh.

I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude. Together, we have made significant strides in advancing our department’s mission and vision, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve as the chairman during this transformative period.

The tourism industry continues to stand as a beacon of opportunity and growth, both globally and locally. Its immense potential to drive economic development and foster cultural exchange remains as compelling as ever. However, it is imperative that we continue to address the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Over the past five years, we have witnessed a notable expansion in the tourism and hospitality sector in Bangladesh. The establishment of 15 new 5-star hotels, along with the growth of other hospitality establishments, reflects the increasing demand for luxury accommodation and services. This presents a wealth of opportunities for our students and graduates to pursue rewarding careers in hotel management, tourism, and related fields.

Despite these advancements, we recognize that there is still much work to be done. The mismatch between the skills demanded by the industry and those supplied by traditional educational institutions remains a pressing issue. As such, our commitment to providing quality tertiary education in tourism and hospitality management has never been stronger.

Through our dedication to excellence and innovation, we have endeavored to bridge this gap by equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to excel in the rapidly evolving landscape of the tourism industry. Our rigorous curriculum for the BBA and MBA in Tourism and Hospitality Management, informed by industry trends and best practices, ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

The Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Rajshahi offers a range of study options to cater to different educational and professional needs. These include the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Tourism and Hospitality Management, which provides foundational knowledge and skills for undergraduate students. For those seeking advanced studies, we offer the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the evening Master of Business Administration (EMBA) in Tourism and Hospitality Management, designed to accommodate working professionals. Additionally, we provide MPhil and PhD programs for those interested in pursuing research and academic careers in this field. These programs are structured to offer a comprehensive understanding of the industry, combining theoretical insights with practical applications.

Moreover, the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Rajshahi remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering strong relationships with industry partners, stakeholders, and the wider community. By forging meaningful collaborations and engaging in impactful research, we strive to contribute positively to the socio-economic development of our nation and beyond.

As we look to the future, I am confident that the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Rajshahi will continue to thrive as a beacon of excellence and innovation. Our students, faculty, and staff are our greatest assets, and I am proud to witness their continued dedication and achievements.

In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment to our department’s mission. Together, let us embark on the next chapter of our journey with enthusiasm, determination, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

Chairman
Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management
University of Rajshahi