Current Debates in Tourism and the Use of Artificial Intelligence
The Tourism Summit connected students with industry representatives, addressing sustainability, local sourcing, practical education, digital transformation and AI as part of professional training.
Professional Training, Sustainability and Artificial Intelligence in Tourism
Led by Istanbul Nişantaşı University’s Vocational School with contributions from the Tourist Guiding and Tourism and Hotel Management programs, the Tourism Summit “Current Debates in Tourism and the Use of Artificial Intelligence” brought leading industry figures together with students during the Grand Career Days.
Rector Prof. Dr. Ayşegül Komsuoğlu Çıtıpıtıoğlu and TÜRSAB Board Member Yıldırım Taş delivered opening speeches. The Rector emphasized tourism’s strategic importance across economic, cultural, sustainability and technological dimensions. Yıldırım Taş stated that qualified personnel and strong professional legislation are needed for Türkiye to maintain its strong position in tourism.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Emine Keskin moderated the first session, featuring JW Marriott Hotel Ankara General Manager Dr. Hakan Arslan, Orientbank Hotel Istanbul General Manager Engin Eryılmaz and Marriott International Türkiye Business Council Chair Recep Özdemir. Discussions highlighted practical education, sustainability, local sourcing, art and investment in staff to improve service quality.
The second session featured SeaParks Co-Founder Gürbüz Can, Royal Blue Resort & Residence General Manager Semih Altun, TUROYD President Ali Can Aksu and Hampton by Hilton Menteşe General Manager Derya Aydınay. They shared experiences on post-pandemic cruise tourism, opportunities through digitalization, the need for professional legislation and hotel opening processes.
The third session, moderated by Lecturer Hümeyra Demir, featured CVYEN AI Product Manager Ahenk Ayvaşık, MUSE VR Co-Founder Talat Alkan, Mayda Holding Board Chair İbrahim Mayda and Geleceğin Rehberleri President Mert Erdoğan. Artificial intelligence, augmented reality, digital identity and digital platforms for volunteer tour guides were prominent topics.
The summit concluded with plaques of appreciation and a commemorative photograph. Sessions highlighted digitalization, practical education, crisis management and next-generation technologies, emphasizing the importance of students’ well-rounded development for industry success.
