The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), in partnership with Thailand's Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is working to promote sustainable aquaculture and support the country's fisheries industry. This collaboration is part of the project titled "Making NbCS in Aquaculture in Southeast Asia Monitoring More Gender Responsive" (GeNA Project), which focuses on enhancing aquaculture practices while ensuring environmental conservation and promoting gender equality.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Prof. Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT, and Mrs. Thitiporn Laoprasert, Deputy Director General of the Department of Fisheries. The agreement outlines cooperation in academic, research, and development initiatives aimed at applying nature-based solutions to address the impacts of climate change on aquaculture.
The GeNA Project is designed to strengthen the aquaculture sector by incorporating inclusive approaches that recognize and empower individuals of all gender identities. It emphasizes equality, capacity building, and reducing social and economic disparities. The project also includes knowledge-sharing activities to support agricultural entrepreneurs, with support from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Canada.
The project is being piloted in three countries: the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand. In Thailand, the initiative focuses on rice-fish farming a nature-based method that promotes food security, income generation, and sustainable growth in the fisheries sector.
Prof. Kyoko Kusakabe, Head of the Gender and Development Studies program at AIT's Department of Development and Sustainability, noted that AIT and the Department of Fisheries have a long-standing collaboration. "The GeNA Project is about strengthening innovation and knowledge in the fisheries and aquaculture industries while also advancing gender equality. It supports greater involvement of women in aquaculture by enhancing their skills and enabling them to pursue careers, earn income, and contribute to sustainable development," she said.
Mrs. Thitiporn Laoprasert added that the Department of Fisheries plays a key role in researching, supporting, and promoting fisheries-related careers across Thailand. She emphasized the importance of modernizing the sector through the development of new technologies and innovations to address the ongoing impacts of climate change.
"These challenges demand swift adaptation across all areas of fisheries and aquaculture. Our collaboration with AIT aims to improve aquaculture production, enhance sustainability, and boost competitiveness in the global market," she said. "Through this partnership, knowledge and innovations will be shared with farmers, helping them strengthen their livelihoods, increase incomes, and support the long-term growth of the sector."
The GeNA Project also contributes to national efforts to enhance the international competitiveness of Thailand's fisheries industry and prepare for future demands in the global market.