KINGSTON, Jamaica -The Community-based Climate Resilience in the Fisheries Sector Project has been a game- changer in the training offered at the HEART/NSTA Trust Ebony Park Academy.

Under the World Bank-funded project, millions of dollars in support have been provided for the development of a modern fisheries programme at the Clarendon-based institution.

Managing Director of the HEART/NSTA Trust, Taneisha Ingleton, in her address at the official handover of equipment under the project recently, said that the institution has received more than $10 million in infrastructure upgrades, including state-of the-art facilities for three fishponds and modern equipment to increase Tilapia production.

“This investment will help to strengthen our aquaculture training and production capabilities, including enhanced practical training.  Our trainees now have access to hands-on learning experiences with modern aquaculture techniques,” she said.

“Our renovated fishponds are now more sustainable and resilient to climate-related challenges, ensuring long-term productivity, economic and employment opportunities,” she added.

Ingleton said that the project represents a significant step forward in equipping trainees with the skills needed to support Jamaica’s fisheries sector, while strengthening community-based climate resilience.

Ingleton noted that already, the success of the initiative is being realised, with the first harvest yielding remarkable improvements in fish growth and quality.

“By boosting Tilapia production, we are contributing to Jamaica’s food security efforts and promoting sustainable fish-farming practices,” she pointed out.

The Community-based Climate Resilience in the Fisheries Sector Project is being implemented by the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining.

It aims to enhance climate-resilient practices among targeted fishing and fish-farming communities across Jamaica in a bid to strengthen the sector through several engagements.

The objective is to boost productivity, sustainability, innovation and resilience in the fisheries sector.

The HEART Trust/NTA Ebony Park Academy, located in Toll Gate, is one of Jamaica’s chief agricultural training institutions, with a mission to ensure that all individuals working in the agriculture and hospitality sectors are certified to industry standards.

– JIS