The 2023 European Association of Hospitality and Tourism Schools (EURHODIP) Conference, organized under the auspices of Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Faculty of Tourism with the theme 'Sustainability and Innovation in Tourism and Gastronomy', commenced on Wednesday, 1 November, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. with an opening ceremony held at Salamis Bay Conti Resort Hotel. Prior to the opening ceremony, participants gathered at 6:00 p.m. at a cocktail reception. Those attending opening ceremony also visited the award-winning photographs exhibition featuring pieces from the 'State Photo Contest' under the auspices of the Deputy Prime Ministry, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Environment, directed by the Cultural Department, as well as the 'Traditional Cypriot Turkish Costumes Exhibition' inaugurated by Ayhan Bıçaklı, a member of the Evaluation Committee of the Cultural Department's Support Regulation for Associations related to Fine Arts.
In addition to participants from 16 different countries, the ceremony was attended by Members of the Parliament from the Republican Turkish Party Teberrüken Uluçay and Şifa Çolakoğlu, the President of the Higher Education Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation and Coordination Council (YÖDAK) Prof. Dr. Turgay Avcı, EMU Board of Trustees President Dr. Erdal Özcenk, EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, Mayor of Yeniboğaziçi Katip Demir, Deputy Directors from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Environment, EURHODIP Board President and Vice Presidents, Dean of EMU Faculty of Tourism Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, faculty members, and students.
Over 100 Participants Attended
The opening ceremony commenced with a dance performance by The Cyprus Dance Education Centre. Continuing with a Flag Ceremony, Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, Dean of EMU Faculty of Tourism, welcomed everyone for their participation in the EURHODIP conference hosted by EMU. Prof. Dr. Öztüren mentioned the participation of over 100 attendees from 16 different countries, emphasizing EURHODIP's pivotal role in advancing the tourism industry. Prof. Dr. Öztüren also highlighted the capacity of tourism to create a better world and strengthen future leaders. Addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Öztüren said, "You are the leaders of the future. We are delighted and honored to host you here and have you as part of EURHODIP." Prof. Dr. Öztüren provided information about EMU Faculty of Tourism and expressed his hope for a productive conference.
EURHODIP President Paulo Reves conveyed gratitude to EMU for their hospitality and provided insights into EURHODIP. Emphasizing the theme 'Sustainability and Innovation in Tourism and Gastronomy' for the conference, Reves highlighted that participants' work would shed light on this field."
"EMU is the Flagship of the Country"
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, expressing the pride of hosting the EURHODIP Conference that brings together the leaders of the future, welcomed everyone for their participation. Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç emphasized the significant importance of holding such conferences in terms of promoting the country and making an international impact. Prof. Dr. Kılıç mentioned that by taking the lead in organizing these types of conferences, EMU instills confidence and serves as a source of motivation, showcasing not only the university’s national but also its international strength. Pointing out EMU as the most established university in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Prof. Dr. Kılıç used the phrase "EMU is the flagship of the TRNC" to underline its significance.
Providing information about EMU Faculty of Tourism, Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed that the faculty holds a special place among the pride of the university and its international achievements are appreciated by all. He highlighted that the Tourism and Hospitality sector not only contributes to economic growth but also plays a crucial role in enhancing cultural understanding, acting as a bridge that unites the world. Prof. Dr. Kılıç emphasized that the sector involves hospitality, innovation, and passion, addressing the participants by saying, "As participants from different countries and cultures, there's much to learn from each other. You will not only challenge your own boundaries but also push the limits within the industry. By combining your creativity, innovation, and people-focused approach, you will discover how to further develop tourism and hospitality management." Expressing gratitude to those involved in organizing the conference, Prof. Dr. Kılıç conveyed his hopes for a productive event.
EMU is One of the Best Universities in the Region
YÖDAK President Prof. Dr. Turgay Avcı, in his speech, congratulated EMU's new Rector, Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, expressing his belief in Kılıç's success in his new role. Prof. Dr. Avcı stated that being a member of EMU's Faculty of Tourism is a great source of honor. Prof. Dr. Avcı proudly mentioned his affiliation with the EMU Faculty of Tourism and highlighted how EURHODIP brings together people from different cultures and corners of the world. Addressing the participants, Prof. Avcı said, 'I know that when you return to your countries, you will speak about how the TRNC is a suitable place for living and education.' Prof. Dr. Avcı emphasized, 'EMU is EMU. Everyone should know that EMU is one of the best universities in the region. It doesn’t matter what anyone says or thinks. This is the truth.'
Following the opening speeches, Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented the Tourism and Hotel Management Education Outstanding Service Award to YÖDAK President Prof. Dr. Avcı and the former Dean of EMU Faculty of Tourism and Dean of Girne University Faculty of Tourism, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Altınay. Salamis Hotel General Manager Süleyman Kansu received the Tourism Sector Outstanding Service Award on behalf of Salamis Hotel General Coordinator Dr. Mehmet Kıral, and Prof. Dr. Kılıç presented a plaque of appreciation to EURHODIP President Paulo Reves.
As part of the opening program, there were choral performances by the Famagusta Women's Center Association - Makamer Sounds of Freedom Women's Choir and the Cyprus Polyphonic Choirs Association (KPKD) Othello Polyphonic Choir, as well as a performance by the Iskele Municipality Folk Dances Group. Additionally, music performances were presented by EMU Faculty of Education, Department of Fine Arts Education, Music Teaching Program students.
The 30th EURHODIP Conference, continuing until 5 November, 2023, will feature student competitions in four different categories: Food and Beverage Management, Tourism Management, Marketing Management, and Culinary Arts. The event will include various other interesting activities. Distinguished speakers and guests from the tourism industry will partake in the conference, presenting papers, holding meetings, and organizing panels throughout the conference. Researchers, tourism educators, postgraduate students, and industry professionals will contribute to the event during the conference period.
