Empowering Women in Rural Tourism

The DIANA Project (Erasmus+ CBHE) is an international initiative aimed at “Empowering Women through the Development and Implementation of Rural Tourism Entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan”. The project is co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education (CBHE) programme and runs for 36 months (2025–2028).

The main goal of the project is to strengthen women’s economic participation by providing them with knowledge, practical skills, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of rural tourism. DIANA focuses on promoting sustainable tourism development, preserving local cultural heritage, and creating innovative tourism products in rural areas.

Within the framework of the project, partner universities will develop educational modules, organize training sessions, workshops, and pilot initiatives to support women entrepreneurs in rural communities. Special attention is given to innovation, digitalization, and sustainable business models in tourism.

As a project partner, Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage contributes to academic research, capacity building, and the implementation of project activities in Uzbekistan, supporting the development of inclusive and sustainable rural tourism ecosystems.

The DIANA Project serves as an important platform for fostering international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and social innovation, contributing to regional development and women’s empowerment in Central Asia.