The Centre for Responsible Tourism (CRT), in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Department of Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim, marked World Tourism Day 2026 with a special programme focused on “Rural and Community-Centric Tourism.” The programme was held at Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim, on 7 October 2026, commemorating World Tourism Day, observed globally on 27 September.
The programme was organised in the context of the global theme for World Tourism Day 2026, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” It highlighted the need to place local communities at the heart of tourism development while using technology responsibly.
The programme began with a prayer service led by students. This was followed by a symbolic unity act, during which a flowering plant sapling was placed to represent the community. The dignitaries watered the sapling, highlighting the importance of nurturing and strengthening the community. The gathering was welcomed by Fr. Savio Fernandes and the resource person Fr. Freddy Braganza was introduced by Prof. Pearl Gomes.
In his session, Fr. Braganza encouraged participants to look beyond conventional forms of tourism and recognise the immense potential of Goa’s villages. He highlighted how heritage homes, traditional cuisine, agriculture, paddy fields, fishing communities, local crafts, festivals, religious heritage, rivers and wetlands can offer visitors meaningful and authentic experiences while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
At the same time, he drew attention to the negative impacts associated with the current tourism model, particularly in Goa’s coastal areas. He spoke about the pressures caused by the concentration of tourism along the coast and questioned the growing tendency to project Goa primarily as a destination for nightlife and entertainment. He stressed that such a narrow portrayal can overshadow Goa’s rich cultural heritage, traditional livelihoods, rural landscapes and close relationship between communities and the natural environment. Rather than allowing tourism to be driven solely by commercial interests and the demand for nightlife, he called for a more balanced approach that promotes the diverse cultural, social and environmental assets of Goa.
He further stressed that technology and artificial intelligence must serve communities rather than become instruments for promoting uncontrolled mass tourism. Digital tools should be used thoughtfully to strengthen local enterprises, promote village-based and community-led tourism, showcase Goa’s rural and cultural heritage, and connect visitors with authentic local experiences. Technology, he emphasised, should support responsible tourism without undermining the social, cultural and environmental fabric of local communities.
A village heritage tourism video was screened during the programme, offering participants a glimpse into the possibilities of community-based tourism. This was followed by a vibrant traditional cultural performance by a group from Verna, celebrating Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
Dr. Helic Barreto, Principal, Rosary College in his address exhorted the students to carry forward the principles of protection and preservation of Goan culture and her natural resources and ensure that the Goan benefits from Goa tourism. Fr. Malcolm Colco, Executive Secretary of Centre for Responsible Tourism delivered the Vote of Thanks. The event concluded on a warm and traditional note, with participants being served traditional Goan sweets.
Fr Malcolm Colaco
Executive Secretary
Centre for Responsible Tourism