Rangamati: Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU) has announced an ambitious plan to establish a 'Mini Tourism Hub' within its campus, combining educational and tourism opportunities by capitalizing on the scenic beauty of Rangamati. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Atiar Rahman revealed this initiative during a 'Meet the Press' event at the Rangamati Press Club, ahead of the National Tourism Conference-2026, which the university will host.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Mini Tourism Hub is envisioned to be a small-scale, education-focused tourism zone. This project aims to boost Rangamati's tourism sector while providing a platform for research, practical learning, and sustainable development. The initiative's primary goal is to create a model that integrates tourism and education centered around the university's picturesque campus, situated by Kaptai Lake and surrounded by hills.
Dr. Rahman emphasized that the hub would serve as a center for experiential education, particularly benefiting students from the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management with practical experiences alongside their academic studies. The hub will also spotlight local culture, showcasing the traditions, ethnic diversity, cuisine, and handicrafts of Rangamati's indigenous communities, thereby enriching visitors' cultural experiences and supporting the local economy.
The Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of adhering to eco-friendly tourism practices to ensure environmental protection, with the hub serving as a model for sustainable tourism development nationwide. Notable attendees at the press conference included former Rangamati Press Club president Sunil Kanti Dey, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Conference President Dr. Muhammad Rahim Uddin, and Assistant Professor GM Selim Ahmed, among other university officials.
The RMSTU National Tourism Conference-2026 is scheduled for January 16 and 17, with the Bangladesh Tourism Board as the main organizing partner. Over 70 researchers will present their work during the two-day event, with the inaugural ceremony featuring Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan as the chief guest and University Grants Commission member Professor Dr. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan as a special guest.
The conference will include plenary sessions with speakers such as Professor Dr. Md. Kamrul Hasan from Dhaka University, Professor Dr. M. Faridul Islam from Rajshahi University, and Dr. Md. Saiful Islam from Bangladesh Maritime University. The event is themed 'Tourism: Exploring the Next Nature,' and will continue on the second day with keynote speeches, presentations, and a closing ceremony.
Organizers are optimistic that both the conference and the Mini Tourism Hub initiative will propel Bangladesh's tourism sector onto the global stage.