ABSTRACT

The Mekong Delta Region in Vietnam is rich in natural resources, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, offering significant potential for community-based tourism (CBT) development. CBT can contribute to sustainable socio-economic development and poverty alleviation in the region. However, the development of CBT faces numerous challenges, including a lack of skilled human resources, insufficient application of scientific innovations, and limited awareness of the importance of sustainable tourism practices. This study aims to explore the role of education and scientific innovation in promoting the development of CBT in the Mekong Delta Region, and to provide practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining a review of the literature, case studies of successful CBT models in Vietnam and in other countries, and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from local communities, tourism businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions. The findings reveal that education and scientific innovation play crucial roles in developing CBT in the Mekong Delta Region. Enhancing the quality of education and vocational training for local communities, promoting scientific research and technological applications in sustainable tourism management, and fostering international cooperation in education and research are essential for CBT development. The study also identifies key challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited funding, and insufficient collaboration among stakeholders. In short, the development of CBT in the Mekong Delta Region can be fostered by incorporating education and scientific innovation into tourism policies and practices. This requires coordinated efforts from various stakeholders, including the government, educational institutions, tourism businesses, and local communities. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to promote CBT development in the Mekong Delta Region and other similar contexts.

Keywords: community-based tourism, Mekong Delta Region, education, scientific innovation, sustainable development, stakeholder collaboration