Integrating Intangible Cultural Heritage in Higher Education—Challenges and Obstacles

The paper analyzes the integration of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) into higher education, focusing on challenges, opportunities, and effective strategies for overcoming barriers. It is part of a broad multicultural project that aims to integrate and better manage the national intangible heritage in order to raise awareness of European common values. Using qualitative and quantitative data from research that included interviews and focus groups from 61 experts, it highlights institutional obstacles, limited resources, and doubts about ICH's relevance as significant obstacles. Despite these challenges, incorporating ICH can foster civic engagement, cultural awareness, heritage preservation, and social cohesion. The study emphasizes the need for consistently including ICH in university curricula and suggests innovative methods, such as experiential learning and digital tools, to engage students effectively. Culturally responsive frameworks and dynamic interdisciplinary approaches are recommended to overcome barriers. Furthermore, integrating ICH into education is directly linked to cultural tourism, promoting sustainable tourism practices that honor and protect cultural diversity. It shows that universities can play a critical role in preserving ICH, contributing to developing culturally enriched and socially responsible graduates.