Tourism in Greece, a global benchmark in the sector, has opened its doors to Colombian innovation. Professor Mauricio Andrés Manrique, from the Department of Tourism at the University of Cauca, was selected as one of 10 Colombians chosen for a unique immersion experience in Larissa, Greece, thanks to an Erasmus scholarship. His mission: to uncover the keys to success in modern tourism management, from inclusive tourism to digital marketing, and bring that knowledge back to Colombia, and especially to his region.

Professor Mauricio Andrés Manrique was selected, along with nine other Colombians, to participate in a Job Shadowing program in Larissa, Greece. Funded by the Erasmus Foundation, this program enables professionals and academics to closely follow the daily work of foreign institutions, in order to exchange knowledge, strengthen international networks, and acquire best practices in their field. The experience, which took place from June 20 to 30, 2025, represented a unique opportunity to deepen expertise in key areas such as Inclusive Tourism, Digital Marketing for Tourism, and Sustainable Tourism. According to Professor Manrique: “This scholarship and the experience gained represent an important professional achievement and a valuable contribution to the Department of Tourism, which will undoubtedly be reflected in future academic and research initiatives.”

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The selection process was highly competitive. From numerous applications, 50 candidates were admitted to the courses, but only the 10 with the highest final scores, including Professor Manrique, were awarded the scholarship. The process, which consisted of three rigorous stages, included a résumé evaluation, a technical interview in English focused on inclusive tourism, and achieving high grades in the courses taught by the eCommerce Institute.

During his stay in Greece, this Unicauca professor participated in various academic activities that allowed him to analyze case studies and gain first-hand knowledge of tourism management strategies in a country that is a global reference in the sector. Among the highlights were visits to Meteora, the second most visited site in Greece after the Acropolis, and the island of Skiathos, two iconic destinations that enriched his learning and broadened his perspective on sustainable and inclusive tourism.

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At the University of Cauca, we express our deep pride in Professor Mauricio Andrés Manrique and in all the faculty members who, with their commitment, talent, and vocation, participate in international experiences that enrich academic life and inspire social transformation. These experiences not only strengthen teaching, research, and outreach processes, but also reflect the power of public education to transform lives, open pathways, and make dreams come true for those who believe in knowledge as a driver of change.

To our professors, thank you for dreaming big and working to make it happen, there is no better way to educate than by example. And yes, crossing borders opens the mind in unexpected ways.

 

Written by: Center for Communications Management