By Mirindra Rakotoarisoa,
MIRARI and Bangor University recently returned to Madriromirafy and Itremo Massif to continue their work on the Community Management Agreement (CGC). Following up on their previous July fieldwork, this expedition focused on deepening awareness and sharing important information with local communities regarding protected areas and the CGC.
Role play with local residents and PA managers in Madiromirafy
The training sessions were intensive and interactive, employing short presentations and role-playing exercises. These activities not only helped locals understand the steps involved in implementing the CGC but also served as effective icebreakers, fostering engagement and participation. A Q&A session further clarified doubts and allowed community members to voice their opinions freely.
The training also used innovative assessment techniques. Participants answered multiple choice questions in quizzes, choosing their responses by raising their hands. Additionally, a method involving different team members advocating both correct and incorrect answers encouraged lively discussions among participants, aiding trainers in gauging comprehension levels and promoting collaborative learning.
Lalaina Andrianavalona running the community mass training sessions in Belitsaka, Itremo
Training session in Madiromirafy – Ankirihitra – Madiromirafy Complex
The training also used innovative assessment techniques. Participants answered multiple choice questions in quizzes, choosing their responses by raising their hands. Additionally, a method involving different team members advocating both correct and incorrect answers encouraged lively discussions among participants, aiding trainers in gauging comprehension levels and promoting collaborative learning.
Local residents during the mass training sessions in Belitsaka, Itremo
Post-training evaluations showed a significant improvement in participants’ grasp of CGC concepts, including its definition, relevance to protected areas, and understanding of rights, responsibilities, and representative selection processes.
The team also filmed a short documentary on the CGC during this fieldwork, capturing the essence of their interactions and the community’s perceptions of an ideal co-management of protected areas.