[FLC 23-03] Training Workshop on Developing Climate Change Communication Plans in the Mekong Delta

CECAD and Tram Chim National Park organized a capacity-building workshop to strengthen communication planning skills on climate change adaptation for youth representatives and local officers in the Mekong Delta.

On May 10–11, 2025, the Center for Environment and Community Assets Development (CECAD), in collaboration with Tram Chim National Park, organized a two-day Training Workshop on Developing Climate Change Communication Plans in Dong Thap Province. The workshop brought together 20 participants, including representatives from the Youth Unions of six Mekong Delta provinces, Long An, Tien Giang, Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, and Dong Thap, along with staff members from Tram Chim National Park.

Participants, facilitators and CECAD staff during the field trip at Tram Chim National Park

The training aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of climate change and to build their capacity in designing effective communication plans tailored to local contexts. Experts provided comprehensive insights into fundamental concepts such as the differences between weather and climate, and introduced the three major response pillars: mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage. Participants also learned about the various levels and approaches of communication, with a focus on promoting public awareness and collective action in climate adaptation. During the workshop, representatives from Tram Chim National Park shared updates on the park’s biodiversity, the impacts of climate change on wetland ecosystems, and ongoing conservation communication initiatives. Participants later joined a field trip within the park to observe the visible effects of changing water levels, drought, and salinity intrusion on the local environment.

Group discussion session on developing communication plans

Groups presenting their developed communication plans

Following the field visit, participants were divided into groups to develop communication ideas aimed at raising community awareness—especially among youth—about the role of Tram Chim and the broader Dong Thap Muoi wetlands in climate adaptation and biodiversity conservation. Each group then presented its own draft communication plan, outlining objectives, key messages, target audiences, and implementation strategies.

By the end of the training, participants had demonstrated significant improvement in both their understanding of climate issues and their ability to design practical communication plans, reinforcing local action and cooperation for a more resilient and sustainable Mekong Delta.

Source & Photos: CECAD