The Most Influential Tourism Academic in the World

Introduction:
In line with the Afro-Asian Union's (AFASU) commitment to supporting education and academic research in the tourism sector, the "Most Influential Tourism Academic in the World" award recognizes elite scholars and researchers who have significantly contributed to the advancement of tourism thinking, modernization of tourism education, enhancement of academic program quality, and whose research has impacted tourism policies and strategies at both the local and international levels.

About the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU):

The Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) is a nonprofit international organization operating under the umbrella of the Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity Organization (AAPSO). It aims to promote cooperation between Africa and Asia in the fields of development, tourism, culture, technology, and media.

AFASU launches strategic initiatives and hosts international forums to enhance integration in sectors of comprehensive development—particularly tourism and sustainable education.

About the Parent Organization – AAPSO:

The Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity Organization (AAPSO) was founded in 1957 at the invitation of heads of state following the Bandung Conference. It includes more than 102 member countries from around the world and holds observer status at the United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), UNCTAD, and the League of Arab States.

AAPSO supports relations between peoples and governments, and one of its executive arms is AFASU, which uses awards as a key tool to recognize excellence.

AFASU Golden Awards:

These are among the most prestigious international honors, presented in recognition of excellence across sectors such as tourism, culture, education, innovation, arts, media, development, technology, and more.

The awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose exceptional efforts have helped develop their communities or promote a positive global image of their countries.

Award Purpose:

To recognize an academic figure, institution, or research body in the field of tourism that has significantly enriched education, research, and development. The award also honors those who have helped build the capacity of new generations of tourism professionals through academic production, impactful initiatives, and influencing decision-makers.

Meaning of the Award:

This award is presented to a tourism academic, researcher, or academic institution—or to all of them collectively—for leaving a lasting intellectual and scientific mark locally, regionally, or internationally in the following areas:

University and applied tourism education
Scientific research with practical impact
Consultancy and innovation in tourism development
Strengthening the link between academia and the public/private tourism sectors
Organizing impactful scientific and academic tourism events

Award Criteria:

Scientific Output: Publishing acknowledged studies, books, or reference research.
International Influence: Participation in global conferences or collaboration with international organizations.
Educational Leadership: Development of innovative academic or training programs.
Community Impact: Tangible influence on local communities or the tourism sector.
Sector Engagement: Active cooperation with government or private sector stakeholders.
Innovation in Education: Introduction of modern educational tools or technologies.
Sustained Excellence: Continuous scientific contributions over the years, not just temporary achievements.

International Judging Committee:

Importance:
Ensures high integrity, credibility, and transparency in the selection process.

Composition:
A high-level committee of 45 global experts in tourism, education, research, sustainability, and related fields.

Vision:

To position the award as a global standard for honoring influential academic minds in tourism and to motivate universities and research centers to offer pioneering models in tourism education.

Mission:

To support thought leadership and knowledge as the foundation of global tourism development, and to foster stronger partnerships between academia and state sectors for sustainable tourism growth.

Objectives:

Highlight the vital role of education and research in supporting tourism.
Encourage academics to innovate and drive societal impact.
Promote linkage between universities and tourism-related public/private sectors.
Establish an impactful Afro-Asian academic tourism network with international reach.
Promote academic exchange among universities and research institutions in Africa, Asia, and the world.

Award Frequency & Nature:

Annual: Presented once per year during a major AFASU-organized event with significant media and tourism presence.

Award Components:

The AFASU Golden Shield
An international certificate of recognition
Global media coverage
Opportunity to present scientific work during the main conference

Nomination Mechanism:

Through members of the Supreme Judging Committee (7 members)
Or via universities and accredited scientific institutions affiliated with AFASU

Slogan:

"Academic Thought that Builds Tourism and Drives Sustainable Development."

Scope of the Award:

Open to academics from African, Asian, and Latin American countries, and also available to experts from other regions if their contributions serve the interests of tourism development in Africa and Asia.

Organizing Body:

Afro-Asian Union for Tourism, Sustainable Development & Technology (AFASU)
President: Dr. Hossam Darwish – International Tourism Expert and President of the Union

Conclusion:

The "Most Influential Tourism Academic" award reflects the Union's belief that the advancement of tourism cannot be achieved without enlightened academic and intellectual leadership.
It is a call to honor scholars and experts who guide sustainable tourism development with scientific rigor and visionary thinking.