The workshop on “MICE Tourism: Bangladesh Perspectives” was initiated with a warm welcome by Dr. Md. Enayet Hossain, Chairman, Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management, RU, who also chaired the session. Dr. Hossain introduced the distinguished speaker, Mr. Jabed Ahmed, Former CEO of the Bangladesh Tourism Board and Senior Consultant at UNDP, and highlighted his extensive experience and contributions to the tourism industry. He underscored the importance of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism in the context of Bangladesh and its potential to boost the country’s economic development.
Keynote Presentation
Mr. Jabed Ahmed delivered an insightful keynote presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of MICE tourism and its relevance to Bangladesh. He began by explaining the fundamental concepts of MICE tourism, detailing the different components and their respective roles in the tourism sector. Mr. Ahmed emphasized the growing global trend of MICE tourism and its significance in driving economic growth, enhancing business opportunities, and fostering international collaborations.
Bangladesh’s MICE Tourism Landscape
In his presentation, Mr. Ahmed delved into the current state of MICE tourism in Bangladesh, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. He discussed the infrastructural developments in major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong, which are essential for hosting large-scale events. Additionally, he pointed out the need for improved facilities, better connectivity, and strategic marketing to position Bangladesh as a competitive MICE destination. Case studies of successful MICE events held in Bangladesh were shared to illustrate the country’s potential in this sector.
Interactive Session
The lecture was followed by an interactive session where students engaged actively with Mr. Ahmed, asking questions and sharing their perspectives. Topics of discussion included the role of technology in MICE tourism, strategies for attracting international conferences to Bangladesh, and the importance of sustainable practices in event management. Mr. Ahmed provided practical insights and encouraged students to think innovatively about how they could contribute to the growth of MICE tourism in their future careers.
Conclusion and Future Directions
Dr. Md. Enayet Hossain concluded the session with a summary of the key points discussed. He expressed gratitude to Mr. Jabed Ahmed for his valuable contributions and for inspiring the students with his expertise. Dr. Hossain highlighted the significance of such guest lectures in broadening the students’ understanding of the tourism industry and encouraged them to stay informed about global trends. The session ended on a positive note, with a commitment to continue fostering knowledge and skills that will help students excel in the dynamic field of tourism and hospitality management.
