TD organized the International Training Course on Coastal Fisheries Management and Extension Methodology from 24 November to 17 December 2009 at Training Department, Samutprakarn, Thailand.

It is widely recognized that small-scale and coastal fisheries are crucial in ensuring food security for people in the region. They are important sources of livelihood for rural and coastal communities. However fish stocks and other coastal resources are under immense pressure: Over-fishing, caused by high fishing pressure and open access, environmental degradation and habitat destruction all take a toll on fish populations and other coastal resources. Fast growing population, economic and industrial development, urban growth and tourism are only few of the many factors that conflict in coastal areas. Responsible coastal fisheries management is one component of integrated coastal management therefore fisheries and coastal resource managers need to facilitate consensus building processes between the growing numbers of various agents active in coastal areas.

The SEAFDEC Training Department (TD) has taken up this challenge and is committed to assisting its member countries in building up and developing capacity for integrated coastal management approaches. Twenty-seven days training course on Coastal Fisheries Management and Extension Methodology was organized. This training course was specifically designed for twenty fisheries extension officers from SEAFDEC member countries through non-member countries such as Sri Lanka and Maldives. The course focuses on innovative approaches to coastal fisheries management, essential skills for small-scale and coastal fisheries management, media production, excursion and other. The training outcome will expand participant skills beyond traditional fisheries management concepts and provide them with the mediation, facilitation and conflict resolution skills needed to become agents of responsible coastal change.