In June 2026, the “Solutions and Action for People and Nature” Project (SAPAN/TOPP), implemented by the Center for Rural Development in Central Vietnam (CRD) – department of the Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry, organized training courses on using the Smart-Mobile software for forest patrolling. The training was designed for community forest management groups in A Luoi 4, A Luoi 5, and Long Quang communes, Hue city.
This activity aimed to strengthen the digital technology application capacity of Community Forest Management Boards, patrol team leaders, and members involved in forest management and protection. Through the training, participants received guidance on installing the Smart-Mobile application on smartphones, practicing data collection during patrols, recording field observations, and transmitting monitoring data to the central management system.
The training courses were structured around a “hands-on” approach, combining theoretical instruction with practical exercises. Immediately after learning the basic operations on mobile devices, participants conducted field exercises in their allocated community forests. This is an opportunity for community members to familiarize themselves with digital tools in forest patrolling while testing the software’s effectiveness under real-world conditions.
During the field practice, participants performed tasks such as recording patrol routes, determining positions via GPS, updating field observations, and sending monitoring data. Many trainees, particularly younger members, quickly mastered the software and assisted other team members.
Beyond improving technical skills, the activity provided a forum for communities to exchange experiences and discuss challenges in forest management and protection. Discussions indicated that the application of Smart-Mobile enhances the accuracy, transparency, and timeliness of forest resource monitoring while significantly reducing the time required for data aggregation and post-patrol reporting.
Integrating digital tools into community forest management is a crucial solution for boosting forest protection efficiency, assisting communities in adopting modern management approaches, and encouraging proactive local participation in natural resource conservation.
Through this initiative, the SAPAN/TOPP Project reaffirms its commitment to partnering with local communities in applying innovative solutions, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of community forest management and working toward sustainable development goals in the Central Annamites region.
HIGHLIGHTS OF ACTIVITIES
