Institute of Tourism Studies expands footprint in China with second campus in Zhengzhou

The Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) has inaugurated its second satellite campus in China, marking another step in the ITS Strategic Plan 2020-2050.

The new campus, located in Zhengzhou – the capital of Henan province – is the result of a partnership with Zhengzhou Tourism College (ZTC), a Chinese institution known for its vocational training in tourism and hospitality.

The campus is designed to deliver a three-year, full-time programme in Tourism and Hospitality Management, with up to 40 students expected to enrol annually.

Graduates from the programme will receive a dual qualification, consisting of a diploma accredited by China’s Ministry of Education and an MQF Level 5 diploma awarded by ITS, aligning with European educational standards.

Chief Executive Officer at ITS, Pierre Fenech, said that the Zhengzhou campus follows the launch of the Institute’s first Chinese campus in Shanghai, which opened in 2024 and is preparing to welcome its second intake of students in September.

“The new campus reflects Malta’s commitment to educational excellence and the Institute’s proactive vision to build global connections through vocational training that meets international industry standards,” he said.

Wang Yanhong, Secretary of the Party Committee of Zhengzhou Tourism College, said: “This is an opportunity to establish a closer, longer-term collaboration in tourism education – let’s embark on this wonderful educational voyage for our students in Zhengzhou and Malta,” he concluded.

The campus was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, as part of his three-day visit to China.