On the evening of January 21st, in Hong Van commune, A Luoi district, the Center for Rural Development in Central Vietnam (CRD), University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University, in collaboration with the Women’s Union of Hong Van Commune, organized the contest “Women’s Active Participation in Natural Resource Conservation.” The program aimed to enhance the capacity of ethnic minority women in natural resource conservation, including the preservation of indigenous medicinal plants in association with livelihood improvement. The event attracted a large number of local people, along with five competing teams from the villages of Ta Lo A Ho, Ca Cu 1, Ca Cu 2, A Nam, and Ker.
The contest featured two main rounds: the Introduction and Message Delivery round and the Talent Performance round. In the first round, the five teams presented impressive performances, demonstrating creativity in conveying messages about forest protection and natural conservation. Each team not only introduced their village but also skillfully integrated meaningful messages on environmental protection and sustainable resource management.
The Talent Performance round continued to showcase unique acts reflecting the daily lives and cultural traditions of the local ethnic communities while also raising awareness of environmental protection. The teams’ performances brought a vibrant, colorful atmosphere to the event, enriching the evening with music, dance, and storytelling.
In addition to the competition, the program also featured an interactive quiz game on “Natural Resource Conservation,” which attracted enthusiastic participation from the local community. With questions revolving around environmental protection solutions and sustainable resource use, the game not only provided entertainment but also helped raise awareness among participants.
The event concluded in an atmosphere of joy and excitement with a closing ceremony and networking session, where teams shared experiences and strengthened solidarity. The contest was not only an engaging and meaningful activity but also an opportunity to raise community awareness about the crucial role of women in natural resource conservation, contributing to a sustainable environment for future generations. This activity was part of the project “Promoting the conservation of indigenous medicinal plants in association with livelihood improvement for ethnic minorities in mountainous areas” funded by the Environmental Resources Management (ERM) Foundation of the ERM Group.