To support Indonesia’s Blue Economy vision and the national target of conserving 30% of marine areas by 2045, the Coral Triangle Center (CTC), with support from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies (MACP), recently conducted a week-long Socio-Economic Monitoring Training and Competency Assessment for conservation area managers in Maluku. The activity, held in Ambon from May 19 to 24, 2025, aimed to enhance the technical capacity of marine protected area (MPA) managers to collect, analyze, and report socio-economic data vital for effective and adaptive management.

The first four days were dedicated to intensive training for 17 participants representing MPA Management Units (MPA managers), fisheries extension officers (FEOs), and NGOs. Delivered through a mix of classroom sessions, group discussions, simulations, and hands-on practice, the training provided participants with an in-depth understanding of data collection methodologies, survey implementation, and the development of socio-economic monitoring reports. Particularly valuable were the simulation sessions, where participants practiced interviews and data processing using mock respondents drawn from youth groups familiar with coastal community dynamics. These activities not only built participants’ technical skills but also boosted their confidence in the field.

One notable aspect of the training was the integration of environmental, health, and safety topics, including the introduction of the Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS)—a framework designed to help conservation programs identify and manage potential social and environmental risks. The training successfully raised participants’ knowledge, as demonstrated by a significant increase in average test scores—from 56.18 in the pre-test to 85.88 in the post-test. All participants correctly answered key questions on household respondent criteria, interview protocols, enumerator responsibilities, and reporting structures.

Feedback showed that over 90% of participants felt they gained new insights and skills, with many citing the practical components—such as interviewing and data input exercises—as the most impactful parts of the training.

Following the training, a two-day competency assessment was conducted for 15 participants from government agencies serving as MPA managers and FEOs, to formally assess their competencies under the national certification scheme for Senior Enumerators in Social, Cultural, and Economic Monitoring. The assessment, organized by TUK CTC and led by five certified assessors from the Certification Agency for Professionals in Conservation and Marine Services (Lembaga Sertifikasi Profesi Konservasi dan Jasa Kelautan – LSP-KJK), involved both direct and indirect evaluations. Four assessors conducted the assessments, while a lead assessor from LSP-KJK supervised to ensure activities were carried out according to procedures. Participants completed real-time tasks such as interviews, data processing, safety demonstrations, and presentations of their findings before the assessors. To ensure objectivity, mock respondents were brought in from outside the participant group.

As a result of the assessment, all 15 participants were recommended as competent by the assessors—a key achievement that contributes to improving the overall effectiveness of conservation area management. Several lessons were drawn from the process, including the need for more practice time during training and better synchronization between trainers and assessors regarding evaluation criteria. Nonetheless, the trainers and assessors were widely praised for their clarity, supportive atmosphere, and strong facilitation. Participants expressed satisfaction with the delivery of materials, the openness of facilitators, and the non-judgmental environment that encouraged active participation.

This initiative is part of CTC’s broader commitment to strengthening local capacity in marine resource governance. By equipping MPA managers with practical skills and official certification, the program helps ensure that socio-economic monitoring becomes an integral part of conservation efforts in Maluku and beyond. Through activities like this, CTC continues to support Indonesia’s journey toward sustainable and inclusive marine conservation.

Writers: Asia Salsabilla, Kasman, Wienda Justitia Ardiyani
Photos: Hana Wanda Laura/CTC, Denny Boy Mochran/CTC, Kele Project