Technical and Technological Training and Sustainable Development of Tourism Microenterprises Within the Framework of the Orange Economy

Abstract

In developing countries today, tourism plays a vital role in generating income, jobs, and overall well-being for the population. For the highest quality service to be provided, it is essential that staff receive training. In Colombia, the benefits of the Orange Economy, offered through the National Learning Service (SENA), provide access to technical and technological training, which in turn contributes to sustainable growth for these communities, most of which are in areas with abundant natural resources. In this context, strengthening the skills of human talent in the tourism sector is key to improving destination competitiveness and promoting the sustainable use of local resources. This document presents a descriptive study with a mixed-methods approach, conducted with micro-entrepreneurs in the municipality of Flandes, Colombia. Using questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions, it was found that the majority have only completed high school (54.2%), and that approximately 98% would like to access such training. Of all respondents, only 6.3% were aware of the existence of this Orange Economy benefit for sectors like tourism. Therefore, the study provides empirical evidence to support the strengthening of dissemination strategies and institutional coordination between training institutions and local tourism stakeholders, contributing to the design of capacity-building strategies that foster economic development and sustainable tourism in the municipality of Flandes (Tolima).