SADC FOREST, SOUTHERN AFRICA

Forestry-related industries are subject to rapid technological developments and continuous change. This makes it difficult for enterprises and individuals to commit to developing particular competencies, skill sets, or knowledge areas. In order to succeed, managers and employees need to respond quickly to the fast-changing forestry industry requirements. To be able to do so, they need to develop adequate competencies and skills.

UNIDO is currently implementing a training project, with funding from the Government of Finland, to design and carry out industry-relevant training packages in partnership with forest industry companies. Training programmes are piloted in South Africa with the aim to replicate them in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. The ultimate goal is to improve regional collaboration on forestry and wood industry education and training in the SADC region that will lead to the creation of green employment and sustainable forest management and utilization.