As Sri Lanka moves forward in its post-crisis recovery, the region is now more accessible than ever with the recent development of Palaly International Airport.
In a bid to uplift the local tourism sector, 84 Tours an inbound tourism company founded by a group of friends born in 1984 to position Sri Lanka as a hub for international travel, recently implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project aimed at enhancing the professionalism of tourist drivers in the Northern Province.
The event was held at Hotel Valampuri.
The half-day training program was hosted by Hazam Aboosali, Chief Operating Officer of 84 Tours.
The main training session was conducted by industry expert and Chief Experience Officer of 84 Tours, Usman Jauffer, who emphasized the importance of punctuality, cleanliness, and hygiene for both vehicles and personal well-being.
Usman, who also serves as a national counsellor for the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA), addressed the critical role of drug-free drivers in ensuring passenger safety and comfort.
He reminded participants that tourism is built on sharing and caring, and that drivers play a pivotal role in shaping the visitor experience.
“Travel is not just for entertainment; it’s a flexible moment for the human mind to exchange feelings.
Improving drivers means improving the tourism industry.
They are the first ambassadors tourists meet” he said.
The second session, led by Nazeem Hassan, Chief Executive Officer of Digytelly Networks, focused on integrating technology into tourism operations.
He provided practical training on the use of GPS applications to avoid traffic, platforms such as WhatsApp for coordination with hotels and guides, weather and safety apps to inform travelers in advance, and digital payment systems to enable cashless, contactless transactions.
“Technology should not replace humanity, but enhance it” Nazeem noted.
Event logistics were overseen by Rihan Ozeer, ensuring smooth operations throughout the day.
The program also featured a networking lunch, during which certificates, specially selected gift packs, and raffle prizes were presented to participants.
The birthdays of two attendees were celebrated during the event, adding a personal and festive touch.
Participants expressed appreciation for the simplicity and practicality of the program, offering valuable suggestions and discussing challenges they face in their work.
A WhatsApp group has since been maintained to foster continuous communication, idea-sharing, and feedback among attendees.
This CSR initiative was held completely free of charge as part of 84 Tours’ ongoing commitment to uplifting the local tourism sector and empowering communities in the Northern Province.
For flight tickets and travel planning with 84 Tours, contact 0777 979 601.