Official Launch of the 2010 Hospitality Training Program of The Pendeba Society in Qomolangma National Nature Preserve (QNNP)
On October 5th, the QNNP Pendeba Society launched the first hospitality training program for local villagers in the QNNP. The opening ceremony for this 10 day program was attended by Mr. Sonam, the deputy director of the Dingri County Tourism Bureau. Mr. Sonam showed his support for the Pendeba Society through his opening remarks that highlighted the importance of such programs for harmonious development in QNNP.
Mr. Tsering Norbu the executive director of the Pendeba Society hosted the opening session and introduced the upcoming schedule. The goal of comprehensive Tibetan style hospitality training is supported by specific classes including cooking, tourism management, and sustainable development. Several local restaurants and hotels in Baibar Township will also be visited to demonstrate application of the topics learnt.
A well-known and qualified Tibetan cook Mr. Mima Tsering from Shigatse, who used to cook for the Tenth Panchen Lama has been invited to teach this cook training. Tibetan and Chinese style dishes will be taught to the participants by different methods and techniques. In total 15 participants from 6 village communities are attending the training program.
Staff from the QNNP Pendeba Society and Dingri County Tourism Bureau will conduct training and workshops on:
v Introduction of the QNNP 
v Concept of the Pendeba Program
v Conservation and Sustainable Development
v Community Involvement in Nature Preserves
v Tourism Development
v Hygiene and Sanitation
v Menu and Billing
v Restaurant Atmosphere and Environment
v Treatment of Guests
v Lodging Management
In order to achieve the long-term effects this training program will be given three times over the coming 7 months to three separate cohorts of 15 participants. Each will receive intensive hospitality training in accordance with the shared goals of sustainable development.
This program is possible through the generous support of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The Pendeba Society extends its deep appreciation to the Canada Fund for its support, appreciation not only from The Pendeba Society, but also the people of the QNNP for whom this support has provided an opportunity to realize their human potential.
Background on Tourism in QNNP
The Qomolangma National Nature Preserve (QNNP) in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), China is one of the world’s major tourist areas. Millions of domestic and international tourists come to Tibet each year to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural attractions. This growing industry is creating hundreds of new employment opportunities for local people.
In 2009, approximately 2 million Chinese and foreign tourists visited the Tibet Autonomous Region. Tourists are drawn to the inspiring scenery and rich history of the QNNP; including, five of the highest mountains in the world (Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyo and Shisha Bangma), and the highest Monastery on earth (Rongbuk Monastery). Tourism is a growing economic force in TAR that has potential to employ many local people, while supporting the long-term ecologically-harmonious development objectives of the government.
The Pendeba Society is helping indigenous people reap more of the economic rewards while also acting as stewards for the environment. This goal of linking economic development and environmental conservation through ecologically sensitive tourism is a priority shared by the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve (QNNP) in it’s Eco-tourism Master Plan.