This decision, described by the Tarifa City Council as a “historic milestone,” addresses a persistent demand from the municipality since October 2024. The goal is to strengthen the educational offerings linked to tourism, the city's primary economic driver.
The process for approving this training cycle has been lengthy and collaborative. Initially, in 2025, a technical proposal from IES Almadraba did not receive a favorable resolution. However, the promoting team, with the support of the City Council and the business community, reinforced the initiative, finally receiving the green light in 2026.
The implementation of the cycle is the result of joint and sustained work over time.
The involvement of the local tourism sector has been fundamental, channeled through coordination forums such as the Tourism Quality Board and the Local Tourism Board. Associations like the Tarifa Accommodation Association, the Kitesurf Schools Association, the Tarifa Gastronomic Association, and the Tarifa Business Federation have all emphasized the need for qualified professionals trained locally.
Business collaboration is crucial for the dual training model of the cycle, which will combine academic theory with practical experience in companies. Numerous hotel establishments, active tourism companies, travel agencies, and maritime operators have expressed their willingness to participate.
The Tourism Delegation, led by Jorge Benítez, has acknowledged the efforts of key figures such as Vanesa Duvige Macías, director of IES Almadraba; Lucía Jiménez Gamero, Tourism Technician for the City Council; and Lourdes Olmo Juárez, for their dedication in the tourism and educational fields. Institutional support from Nacho Trujillo, Rocío García, and Mayor José Antonio Santos Perea has also been recognized.
