International Scientific and Practical Conference on
Bridging Tourism Academia and Industry: Indian and European Perspectives
📅 7–11 September 2026 (All timings in IST)
📍 Pondicherry University, Puducherry, India
**🕒 All dates and times are in Indian Standard Time (IST, UTC+5:30). **
The International Scientific and Practical Conference on Bridging Tourism Academia and Industry: Indian and European Perspectives brings together leading academics, researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students to explore innovative approaches for shaping the future of tourism, hospitality, and service industries. Hosted by Pondicherry University under the SIPAS (Advancing Sustainability and Technology in Tourism, Hospitality, and Services Studies through Strategic Industry Partnerships) Erasmus+ initiative, the conference serves as a unique platform for strengthening collaboration between Indian and European institutions and industry partners.
Tourism is undergoing a profound transformation driven by sustainability, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, immersive technologies, and evolving workforce requirements. The conference aims to address these emerging challenges by fostering meaningful dialogue between academia and industry, promoting curriculum innovation, enhancing employability, encouraging collaborative research, and developing strategic partnerships that prepare graduates for the rapidly changing global tourism landscape.
Participants will engage in keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, technical sessions, and networking opportunities focused on contemporary issues in tourism education, sustainable destination development, smart technologies, digital transformation, industry collaboration, AR/VR-enabled learning, entrepreneurship, and policy innovation. The event provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, build international collaborations, and contribute to shaping the future of tourism education and practice.
Who Should Attend?
The conference welcomes:
- Academicians and faculty members
- Researchers and research scholars
- Tourism, hospitality and travel professionals
- Students
- Policymakers, planners, and government officials
- Industry leaders and entrepreneurs
Call for Papers
Researchers are invited to submit original research papers, research notes, and case studies aligned with the conference themes and sub-themes. Selected high-quality papers will be considered for publication in an edited e-book by Himalaya Publishing House following the review and editorial process.
Important Dates (All timings in IST)
- 20 July 2026 – Abstract Submission Deadline via
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . - 30 July 2026 – Acceptance Notification
- 10 August 2026 – Full Paper Submission Deadline
- 12 August 2026 – Registration Deadline
- 7–11 September 2026 – Conference Dates
Join us at Pondicherry University for five days of inspiring discussions, knowledge exchange, and international collaboration as we work together to bridge the gap between tourism academia and industry and advance a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient future for global tourism.
Day-wise Programme
The day-wise conference programme is now available for participants and visitors to explore the schedule of activities across the conference dates.
📄 View the Day-wise Programme (PDF)
A detailed programme, including session timings, keynote speakers, technical sessions, and other conference activities, will be published soon.
Last updated: 07.07.2026.