In a move to bolster the professionalism and competitiveness of Singapore’s travel industry, NTUC LearningHub (NTUC LHUB) and the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) have forged a strategic partnership. The two organizations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to co-develop the groundbreaking Certified Travel Professional (CTP) program, the first of its kind for the local travel sector.
The CTP program, launched at the NATAS Travel Fair 2024, aims to equip both new entrants and experienced travel professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the evolving travel landscape. Through a combination of NTUC LHUB’s training expertise and NATAS’ extensive network of member agencies, the initiative seeks to drive innovation, enhance service excellence, and prepare the workforce for emerging market demands.
Under the three-year partnership, the CTP curriculum will cover a range of crucial areas, including sustainability, technology, and service excellence. Learners will have the opportunity to specialize in either corporate or leisure travel, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the nuances of each sector.
To earn the Certified Travel Professional certification, participants must complete three modules: one mandatory core module on effective strategies for travel professionals, one general elective, and one specialized elective. Upon successful completion, they will receive the CTP designation in their chosen track – Corporate Travel, Leisure Travel, or Corporate and Leisure Travel.
“This partnership with NATAS is well aligned with our goal to develop programmes aimed at elevating the professionalism of the tourism workforce in the evolving economy,” said Jeremy Ong, CEO of NTUC LearningHub. “Through these efforts, we aspire to help Singapore become a premier tourism destination supported by a workforce that continues to innovate and revitalize itself.”
NATAS president Steven Ler echoed Ong’s sentiments, stating, “Through our collaboration with NTUC LearningHub, NATAS is confident that the CTP programme will not only elevate the standards of service and professionalism within the travel industry, but also support the continuous growth and innovation that is demanded to position Singapore as a leading global travel destination.”
The CTP program’s pilot intake of 10 learners is set to begin in March 2025, with NTUC LHUB managing the program and NATAS overseeing the certification process. This strategic alliance between the two organizations underscores their shared commitment to empowering Singapore’s travel professionals and cementing the country’s reputation as a premier global travel destination.
The new CTP programme aims to strengthen Singapore’s travel workforce through targeted skills training
