In response to the growing environmental challenges posed by forest fires, the AFoCO Regional Education and Training Center (RETC), in collaboration with PSL University and the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs (MOFA), is pleased to announce the AFoCO-PSL Master’s Degree Program on Forest Fire Management.
This program will be conducted from September 2025 to May 2026 in Montpellier, France, and we invite interested applicants from AFoCO Member Countries to apply.
This Master’s Degree Program aims to develop forestry professionals with advanced knowledge and practical expertise in forest fire prevention, suppression, and management. The key components of the program include:
- Theoretical Training: Fire behavior modeling, GIS and remote sensing applications, and climate impact assessments.
- Field Training: Hands-on experience in fire suppression techniques and post-fire restoration strategies.
- Internship Placement: Practical training with key French institutions, including the French Civil Protection authorities and the National Forest Office.
[Eligibility]
The program is open to applicants from seven (7) AFoCO Member Countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam who meet the following criteria:
- Educational Background: Must have completed at least one year of a Master’s program or already hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Natural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Science and Technology).
- Professional Experience: Prior experience in forest fire management, fire prevention, or forest protection is preferred.
- Language Proficiency: The program will be conducted in English (basic proficiency required); French (A1-A2 level) is recommended but not mandatory.
- Physical Readiness: Must be capable of participating in outdoor field activities and fieldwork.
- Commitment to Knowledge Sharing: Must be willing to serve as a trainer in their home country upon program completion.
[Application Process]
Interested applicants must apply directly through the PSL University online portal between February 25 and March 24, 2025.
A total of two (2) participants will be selected from applicants across the seven (7) AFoCO Member Countries.
For any inquiries, please contact to Kiwon Kim(e-mail: [email protected]), Program Officer of the Capacity-Building and Evaluation Team.
