Home of CSTI Excellence
About CSTI
Tshwane University of Technology
Home of the Centre for Sustainable Tourism & Innovation
Since
2009
The Centre for Sustainable Tourism and Innovation (CSTI) is an interdisciplinary research and development institute at Tshwane University of Technology.
The Centre focuses on the intersection of sustainability, digitalisation, and inclusive tourism development, aiming to enhance the sector's resilience and adaptability within the dynamic global and local landscapes.
As a research and training centre, CSTI works closely with industry partners, local communities, and international institutions to create impactful, evidence-based solutions that drive economic, environmental, and social sustainability across the tourism value chain.
Our Vision
To advance transformative, inclusive, and sustainable tourism development through innovation, research, and community engagement.
Our Mission
Dedicated to advancing the sustainability and inclusivity of tourism destinations and industries through interdisciplinary research, comprehensive training programs, and active capacity building programmes. We aim to foster resilient tourism practices that balance economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity.
Our Core Values
At the heart of our Centre's identity and purpose are core values that guide our work and shape our impact.
Excellence
Highest standards in all endeavours
Collaboration
Working together for solutions
Innovation
Creative sustainable approaches
Integrity
Upholding ethical practices
Three Core Pillars
CSTI's activities are structured around three core pillars that drive our mission for sustainable tourism development. The Centre uses interdisciplinary teams engaged in research to solve tourism problems and expand the knowledge base for the industry, governments, and the academic world.
Innovative Research
Conducting cutting-edge interdisciplinary research that addresses critical challenges in sustainable tourism development, creating evidence-based solutions for industry, governments, and the academic world.
- Academic Publications
- Industry Reports
- Policy Recommendations
- International Collaborations
Capacity Building
Developing comprehensive training programs and short learning programmes (SLPs) that enhance skills and knowledge for tourism professionals, communities, and stakeholders.
- Training Programs
- Short Learning Programmes
- Workshops & Seminars
- Professional Development
Community Engagement
Actively engaging local communities and stakeholders to participate in and benefit from tourism development, fostering inclusive, equitable, and sustainable practices across the tourism value chain.
- Community Projects
- Stakeholder Partnerships
- Local Development
- Inclusive Tourism
The Centre collaborates with numerous individual partners and affiliated departments, institutes, and programs at the Tshwane University of Technology and beyond. The vast array of expertise amongst the affiliates provides outstanding intellectual resources to provide strategic services through research, consultancy, education and training.
CSTI History
From our establishment in 2009 to becoming a leading research centre in sustainable tourism development at Tshwane University of Technology.
Establishment
The Centre for Sustainable Tourism (CST) was established in the Tourism Management Department under the Faculty of Management Sciences at Tshwane University of Technology.
Curriculum Development
Initial focus on curriculum development, introducing new casino and event management programs, targeting disadvantaged populations for enrolment. Emphasis placed on faculty development.
Decade of Growth
Registration of 15 research and community projects, presented and showcased nationally and internationally. Three post-doctoral candidates employed who produced research outputs and attended international conferences.
Strategic Rebranding
Initiated a five-year strategic plan with a significant rebranding initiative. The centre was renamed to Centre for Sustainable Tourism & Innovation (CSTI) to better reflect its expanded focus and mission.
Present Day
Six projects remain active, nine completed. Continued focus on sustained collaborative research initiatives locally and internationally, working with industry partners and communities.
Upcoming Events
Join us at our upcoming summits, workshops, and engagements. Reserve your seat through the RSVP link on each event.
Student-Led Tourism Innovation Summit 2026
A student-led summit where research outputs become practical innovations — prototypes, pilot models, and business cases — presented to industry, academia, and community partners.