OECS Countries Require Widespread Training in Protected Areas Planning and Management
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March 12, 2007
(OECS Secretariat, Castries, St Lucia) A recent OECS study has revealed that substantial training in Protected Areas management is a critical requirement in all six independent territories of the OECS.
The study, funded by the OECS Protected Areas and Associated Livelihoods (OPAAL) Project, presents findings, recommendations, and a framework strategy for delivering training, which was developed through an extensive assessment of national and site level needs for protected areas planning and management.
The study was conducted in Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Findings suggest that while persons working in these countries had gained tremendous on-the-job experience within specific environmental portfolios, there are significant deficiencies in knowledge and skills for effective management of Protected Areas.
The Study captures the specific areas where skills and knowledge are most required to enhance the delivery and competencies of individuals to achieve the OECS’ sustainable, adaptive and consultative approach to managing natural resources.
Critical areas where training is required across the OECS region include:
· Protected Areas Governance ( Policy foundations, institutions, legislations, community-based management, co-management, collaborative management etc) · Protected Areas Zoning, Enforcement and Surveillance · Protected Areas Financing & Fundraising, including Business Planning & Business Plan Development · Associated Sustainable Livelihoods & Tourism Management in Protected Areas · Communication Tools and Skills for Protected Areas Management (negotiation and mediation and diplomacy, conflict resolution and consensus building, awareness raising, participatory techniques, networking and partnerships etc)
In addition to recognized needs at the national agency levels, the study also identified a series of training needs at the level of the Protected Area Sites. Training at this level is specifically recommended for income-generating activities which will be associated with OPAAL Demonstration Sites. The study found that Community persons require training in areas such as Tour Guiding, Craft Production, Boat Building and Handling, Customer Service, Business Management, OPAAL Site Characteristics, and Marketing and Communications.
In recommending a framework strategy for delivering training, the study emphasizes that “training must be practical” and tailored to the respective needs of national and site management agencies and associated livelihoods stakeholders. The report also suggests that training must also include relevant local case studies and practical exercises and should provide the opportunity for networking across OECS Member Countries.
The study calls for OPAAL to partner with training experts and national and regional training institutions to design and deliver specific training based upon their expertise. Accreditation for trainees should also be explored.
The results of this assessment will inform the design and implementation of training program(s) for building the capacity of individuals working in protected area planning and management as well as those functioning or interested in sustainable livelihood practices in Protected Areas.
Media Contact: Tecla Fontenard, tfontenard@oecs.org Tel. (758) 455-6366 or 453-6208
Subject Contacts: Peter A Murray, mailto: pamurray@oecs.org (758) 455-6367); and David Popo, dpopo@oecs.org (758) 455 6370 |
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