The 4th outbreak of the Covid-19 disease in Vietnam has affected the production activities of clam farmers in 3 provinces of Tra Vinh, Tien Giang, and Ben Tre. At the same time, it also affects a part of the work of the "Inclusive and sustainable clam and bamboo value chain development in Vietnam (SCBV)” Project which is being implemented by ICAFIS. The need to update the techniques and requirements to prepare for the MSC/ASC sustainability certification assessment and re-evaluation of cooperatives is very urgent. While the epidemic situation was still complicated, the Project Management Board planned to coordinate with the consultant to organize online training courses with the content: "Capacity development and technical support to obtain MSC/ASC certification, propaganda to protect aquatic resources, measures to ensure anti-IUU fishing for Cooperatives in Ben Tre, Tra Vinh and Tien Giang” during the period from 06 to 20 October 2021.
The objective of the training course was to improve the knowledge of clam producers in the Sub-Cooperatives/Cooperatives about the provisions of sustainability certification (MSC certification version 5.0, ASC certification). At the same time, improving production responsibility and community knowledge on resource protection, implementation of anti-IUU fishing measures, and updating regulations on fisheries law 2017. In addition, the training course also Consolidate knowledge for core/facilitators groups at clam sub-cooperatives/cooperatives in the project area to prepare for the final assessment of MSC certification for clam farming in Tien Giang province in November 2021, re-evaluate MSC certification for Ben Tre province in February 2022 and ASC certification for clam industry in Tra Vinh province.
During the training process, besides exchanging and doing practical exercises related to the lesson, trainees and lecturers discussed the missing points of the sub-cooperative/cooperative compared to the regulations of the certificate and build the remedial plan, complete in preparation for the final audit. The training course received positive feedback from participants and addition improved the ability to apply information technology for farmers.
This is the first online training activity held at clam sub-cooperatives/cooperatives in the project area. The learning conditions are almost completely different from the traditional ones, but still receive the support and enthusiastic participation of everyone, with only mobile phones for 2-3 people or a laptop is enough for 5-8 people to studying together. The training course has attracted nearly 100 people who are key members/facilitators at clam sub-cooperative/Cooperative in Ben Tre, Tien Giang, and Tra Vinh provinces.
ICAFIS
