Dr. Jigang Bao, a highly acclaimed name in the field of tourism scholarship, has clinched the prestigious 16th Ulysses Prize. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) bestows this esteemed honor in recognition of significant contributions towards the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the tourism sector.
The lauded scholar is the Director of the Center for Tourism Development and Planning Research at Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. Dr. Bao’s groundbreaking contributions have been instrumental in exponentially boosting domestic tourism and establishing China as a highly sought-after tourism destination. Beyond national borders, his influence has been equally impactful as the Director of the UNWTO Monitoring Center for Sustainable Tourism Observatories.
Dr. Bao has distinguished himself as an expert consultant for a wide range of projects and destinations, displaying a keen focus on urban tourism, community participation, and the growing trend of theme parks. His innovative approach to tourism education and research has proved pivotal in steering China’s tourism sector towards global prominence.
The UNWTO will officially bestow the Ulysses Prize upon Dr. Bao at the upcoming 25th session of the UNWTO General Assembly, scheduled from 16-20 October in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. With this recognition, Dr. Bao joins the esteemed cohort of Ulysses Prize Laureates who have made indispensable contributions to tourism knowledge and education.
Laureates of this coveted prize are evaluated on stringent criteria that include originality, academic leadership, a proven track record of supporting sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation. The selection process prides itself on transparency, rigorousness, and impartiality, with recommendations made to the UNWTO Secretary-General by the Ulysses Prize Coordinating Committee.
Dr. Bao’s pioneering efforts extend beyond the Chinese borders, introducing Western methodologies to tourism research and teaching within the country. He has translated several significant books related to tourism into Chinese, enriching the domestic understanding of global tourism concepts.
He has amassed an impressive academic portfolio, publishing over 200 papers and more than ten books. Dr. Bao’s administrative prowess is further evident from his stint as the Assistant Principal of Sun Yat-sen University. His collaborations with UNWTO have led to the establishment of Sustainable Tourism Observatories across numerous locations in China. His strides in the field of tourism epitomize innovation, making him a worthy recipient of the Ulysses Prize.
World Tourism Organization Brief
The United Nations’ World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) promotes sustainable tourism globally. It comprises six regional commissions and provides technical assistance to over 100 countries. Founded in 1946 with 159 Member States, its headquarters is in Madrid, Spain. UNWTO offers resources like the E-Library, UNWTO Barometer, and statistical data to its members.
METAL WORLD: China boosts molybdenum output: vital for high-stress steel, medical uses
