ACTIVITIES TARGETED AT BUILDING CAPACITY FOR THE EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL RESOURCES CONTINUE.

Coral gardening and restoration is emerging as a significant and rapidly growing management measure to help ensure the future of coral reefs. The resource is pivotal to the island’s ecosystem, and local fisheries and marine authorities say that it is increasingly threatened by climate change and other stressors.

Against this backdrop, a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ Level Two) in coral reef gardening and restoration training was facilitated to augment the practical skills of marine users. The program helps marine users conduct activities in a manner that preserves the integrity of coral habitats.

Speaking at a ceremony to mark the culmination of the program, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Barrymore Felicien, said the joint initiative of the Department of Fisheries, the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP) and the TVET Unit is an opportunity to bring sector stakeholders together on a common agenda item to ensure the preservation and rehabilitation of marine resources in the face of climate change.

“The Level Two certificate serves to compliment participants' livelihoods and broadens their understanding of the functions of coral reefs for the benefit of the future generations,” he said.

Participants in the NVQ Level Two training learned coral gardening site selection, the establishment and management of coral bursaries and gardens, as well as first-aid, navigation, and sanitation practices.

Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Hon. Pauline Antoine-Prospere, said implementing educational programs on best practices for coral restoration is critical, in order to combat reef degradation and promote reef recovery.

Nine individuals inclusive of members from the Department of Fisheries, coastal community residents, and dive tourism practitioners completed the certificate program.

The degradation of coastal ecosystems affects livelihoods in Saint Lucia, both directly and indirectly. The Ministry of Agriculture remains focused on safeguarding Saint Lucia's marine ecosystems as part of its broader efforts to ensure the efficient management of Saint Lucia's natural resources.