By Sue-Ann Wayow

IN a proactive move to address the growing threat of wildfires, a new community-based wildfire training programme has been launched.

The programme is being undertaken by the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded project ‘Biodiversity Conservation and Agroecological Land Restoration in Productive Landscapes of Trinidad and Tobago’ (BIOREACH) and   the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT).

 The initiative was officially launched on Wednesday at UTT’s ECIAF campus.

The inaugural programme welcomed 33 participants from various community-based organisations (CBOs) across the island, an EMA release on Friday stated.

Over the course of 12 weeks, the students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively and safely manage wildfires.

The training will cover essential topics such as:

•         Understanding wildfire dynamics and management

•         The roles and responsibilities of CBOs in wildfire response

•         Legal and institutional guidelines for community involvement

•         Practical demonstrations of fire science, mitigation and suppression techniques

With over 70 years of experience in forestry and agricultural sciences, UTT’s Department of Biosciences, Agriculture and Food Technology (BAFT) is leading the programme.

The curriculum places a strong emphasis on safety and building community resilience through education and practical skills.

The training will also receive support from the Forestry Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded approach.

EMA stated, “This collaborative effort aims to not only empower local communities but also develop a pilot training model that can eventually be implemented nationwide. It is further envisioned that CBOs can become better equipped in conservation and reforestation initiatives, further promoting sustainability and livelihood opportunities.”