The Fisheries Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) Training Course, held on 1 November 2024 at Nha Trang University, Vietnam, marked a significant milestone in fostering regional collaboration and capacity building. Organized with support from the Australian Government and Nha Trang University, the event brought together participants from diverse regions, facilitating the exchange of valuable insights, shared knowledge, and meaningful professional connections.
The course covered key topics, including fisheries management principles, international cooperation in combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and labor and welfare issues in the fishing sector. These discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening collaborative efforts, promoting decent working conditions, enhancing fisheries information-sharing networks, and improving data-sharing cooperation within the RPOA-IUU framework. Such initiatives align with a broader commitment to achieving effective and sustainable fisheries management.
Participants actively engaged throughout the course, demonstrating enthusiasm and dedication. The knowledge gained and networks established are expected to empower them to develop innovative strategies for addressing the challenges of implementing responsible fishing practices, particularly in eradicating IUU fishing.
The training also highlighted a notable increase in female representation, underscoring the growing diversity in fisheries surveillance and MCS fields. Encouraging the participation of women in such programs not only enriches the field but also enhances the overall capacity to address complex challenges effectively.
As the course concluded, the lessons learned and connections formed were seen as valuable tools for advancing professional growth and fostering regional cooperation. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and insights with colleagues, further expanding the reach and impact of the training.
This successful collaboration exemplifies the shared commitment of all stakeholders to promoting sustainable fisheries and regional cooperation. With continued efforts, these initiatives are expected to make a lasting contribution to combating IUU fishing and supporting the sustainable use of marine resources.
