Background
On August 19, 2024, the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) successfully hosted the opening ceremony of the “Science and Technology Exchange Partnership (STEP)” program at its Secretariat, marking a significant step toward strengthening forest conservation cooperation with Central Asian countries. This year’s STEP program aims to enhance skills in forest plant biodiversity conservation among participants invited from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
The 2024 STEP program focuses on educating participants on the latest techniques in seed management and conservation of forest plants. The program spans two weeks, with the first week dedicated to theoretical lectures and practical sessions on seed collection, preservation, and vitality testing at the Baekdudaegan National Arboretum. The second week includes visits to key research institutions, such as the Nakdong-gang National Institute of Biological Resources, and practical training in plant propagation and management. The program successfully completed its first week, with participants actively engaging in hands-on training utilizing BDNA’s advanced technologies and resources.
2024 STEP Program Participants
The 2024 STEP program has invited four participants, two from Kazakhstan and two from Kyrgyzstan. These participants are experts in their respective countries’ forest biodiversity conservation efforts, working in key institutions such as the Astana Botanical Garden and the Research and Plant Protection Department in Kazakhstan, and the Forest Protection and Conservation Department in Kyrgyzstan. They possess extensive experience in botany and forest management and are equipped with the skills to propose and implement effective forest conservation and seed management strategies in their home countries.
Collaboration Between AFoCO and BDNA
The Baekdudaegan National Arboretum (BDNA), a key partner of AFoCO, is a leading forest conservation institution in Korea and a hub for biodiversity conservation and seed preservation techniques. Notably, the Baekdudaegan Global Seed Vault, located within the arboretum, is a critical facility designed to protect the genetic diversity of plants worldwide. Through the STEP program, AFoCO member countries can deposit seeds of rare and endangered plant species, taking a significant step towards the long-term conservation and restoration of plant resources.
Future Outlook and Expected Impact
The 2024 STEP program is set to strengthen the skills and strategies of participating countries for forest resource protection. Through this initiative, AFoCO aims to enhance technical exchange and cooperation among its member countries, reinforcing global forest conservation efforts. Upon completing the program, participants are expected to gain the capability to effectively improve forest conservation policies and strategies in their respective countries. The 2024 STEP program is anticipated to become a model for international cooperation in forest conservation, offering ongoing benefits to more member countries through future expansions.
Submitted by Kiwon Kim, Assistant Program Officer, Capacity-Building and Evaluation Team
