Six classes were held over more than a month in Ede villages in Buon Ma Thuot Ward, marking the first time the locality had combined traditional cultural training with tourism instruction.
The gong classes attracted 60 participants aged between eight and 35. Local artisans taught both basic and advanced pieces for performances at festivals and tourism events.
Xoang dance students also learned performance techniques and the cultural meanings behind traditional dances.
H’Na Si Mlo, a student from Dung Village, said the course helped her better understand Ede culture and strengthened her desire to preserve it for younger generations.
Three community tourism classes were also held in Ako Dhong Village, covering visitor services, food service and the development of local tourism experiences.
Pham Thi Hai Binh, deputy director of Buon Ma Thuot Ward's public service centre, said the programme was designed to build a new generation capable of preserving traditional culture while using local heritage to support tourism.
By the end of the courses, many participants could perform gong music and xoang dances and had gained basic skills in welcoming and serving visitors.
The programme is expected to help preserve the Central Highlands' gong cultural space while supporting community tourism and creating livelihoods in local villages.