16 June 2023 – In a concerted effort to ensure effective project implementation, the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) organized an online webinar on June 16, focusing on the Project Implementation Plan (PIP) matrix and pre-inception arrangements for the Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) Project. Attended by 33 participants from 12 countries, including country project managers and coordinators, as well as the 5 staff members from the AFoCO Secretariat, the webinar aimed to align all country project teams with the PIP Matrix and inception processes. The participants represented a diverse range of countries, namely Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Lao PDR, Mongolia, Myanmar, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
Dr. Junghwan Park, Senior Project Manager, opened the workshop by extending a warm welcome to the project managers, coordinators, and relevant staff. The participants introduced themselves, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and knowledge exchange. Dr. Park then provided an overview of the project status, highlighting the agreement and inception phases. He presented the project’s activities, objectives, and management cycle, offering valuable insights into the project’s scope and structure.
(From the left) Mr. Zaw Min Aye., Ms. Tshering Zam., Ms. YoungJu Han, Dr. Junghwan Park., Mr. Niyaz Zholbarys Arystanuly
One of the key highlights of the webinar was the introduction of the Project Implementation Plan (PIP) Matrix. The PIP Matrix is a vital document that outlines the activities and performance indicators crucial for the successful implementation of the NTFP Project at the country level. By serving as a source of evidence for monitoring the project’s progress, the PIP Matrix empowers project teams to track milestones effectively. Therefore, acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the PIP Matrix is essential for country project managers and teams.
In the subsequent session, the floor was opened for a question and answer period, which saw enthusiastic participation from the attendees. This interactive segment fostered a productive exchange of ideas, enabling participants to address queries and clarify any uncertainties regarding the PIP Matrix and project inception arrangements.The webinar successfully served its purpose by ensuring that all country project teams were well-informed and aligned with the PIP Matrix and inception arrangements. The interactive nature of the event promoted knowledge sharing and cooperation among the participants, setting a solid foundation for the forthcoming stages of the NTFP Project.
Contributed by Ms. YoungJu HAN, Project Management Coordinator
