Osijek – A Center of Dialogue: Science and Professional Practice Join Forces for the Development of Rural Tourism

As part of the preparations for the upcoming 7th International Congress on Rural Tourism, key working meetings were held in Osijek with the aim of strengthening cooperation between the academic community and the tourism sector.

The discussions focused on the role of science and research in shaping sustainable tourism products, with particular emphasis on linking agriculture, the economy, and tourism as a foundation for the revitalization of Croatia’s rural areas.

The meeting brought together leading experts from relevant institutions:

Assoc. Prof. Ivan Kelić, PhD, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Economics in Osijek

Prof. Tomislav Vinković, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek (FAZOS)

Dijana Katica, MSc, President of the Congress Organizing Committee and the association “Club of Members Selo”

Participants emphasized that the synergy between agronomy and entrepreneurship is essential for developing innovative tourism offerings that not only attract visitors but also contribute to an important demographic goal – encouraging young people to remain in rural areas.

The upcoming congress is envisioned as a platform for knowledge exchange among leading experts, featuring panel discussions and presentations of best practice examples. Its clear objective is to position Croatia as a European leader in rural tourism.

“Connecting science and professional practice is the only path toward creating sustainable and competitive tourism products,” participants concluded.

The 7th International Congress on Rural Tourism will provide an opportunity for theoretical knowledge developed at Osijek’s faculties to be directly applied in practice, giving new momentum to the development of continental tourism. The congress serves as a meeting point for the public, civil, and business sectors, as well as scientists and professionals, with the goal of linking science and practice and encouraging the sustainable development of rural tourism.

The congress is also part of the SUNFLOWER Network, a platform dedicated to the creative transformation of rural tourism, sustainability, digitalization, and inclusiveness.