V2V Actions
Successful completion of UNDIP-UNIRAZAK V2V Field School 2024
The summer course "Voices from Coastal Communities: Securing Small-Scale Fisheries " is the result of the close collaboration between the Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), Vulnerability to Viability (V2V) Global Partnership University of Waterloo, and Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK), along with the sponsorship of World Class University (WCU) Program UNDIP and V2V Global Partnership. The event was held in a hybrid format on October 3-7st.
The first day and opening ceremony was held on October 3rd 2024. The summer course began with an opening ceremony attended by Prof. Hadiyanto (Head of the UNDIP Ranking Office), Dr. Dessy Ariyanti (Vice President of the UNDIP Ranking Office), and Afina Hasya (Head of International Affairs Office) on behalf of the Dean of Faculty of Economics and Business. On this occasion, Prof. Hadiyanto and Prof. Indah Susilowati opened the 5 day Summer Course. The participants were scheduled to take part in learning activities, where resource persons on the panel discussion: Prof. Prateep Kumar Nayak (University of Waterloo, Canada), Prof. Gazi Md Nurul Islam (UNIRAZAK, Malaysia), and Prof. Indah Susilowati (UNDIP, Indonesia). Over 100 participants from UNDIP, various universities, and V2V members participated in this Summer Course offline and online.
The first speaker, Prof. Prateep Kumar Nayak explained that the collaboration of these three institutions focuses on honing learning skills and applying the knowledge learned. In his lecture titled "Vulnerability to Viability (V2V) Approach to Understand Social-Ecological Transitions," Prof. Prateep explained that Vulnerability, Viability, and Transition have a multidimensional relationship in the context of small-scale fisheries. The second speaker, Prof. Gazi Md Nurul Islam, discussed "Social Political Dimensions of Vulnerabilities in the Artisanal Fisheries - Case of Marine Protected Areas, Malaysia." He explained that the panel discussion built knowledge with participants from various countries and provided practical solutions to coastal problems. Prof. Indah Susilowati hoped the participants would be active in the Summer Course by collecting book chapters and participating in a series of V2V-themed Summer Course activities. In her material entitled "Blue Economy, Blue Growth, Blue Justice," Prof. Indah showed a survey map of blue economy and blue growth in Tambak Bulusan and Morodemak, Demak Regency.
The first speaker, Prof. Prateep Kumar Nayak explained that the collaboration of these three institutions focuses on honing learning skills and applying the knowledge learned. In his lecture titled "Vulnerability to Viability (V2V) Approach to Understand Social-Ecological Transitions," Prof. Prateep explained that Vulnerability, Viability, and Transition have a multidimensional relationship in the context of small-scale fisheries. The second speaker, Prof. Gazi Md Nurul Islam, discussed "Social Political Dimensions of Vulnerabilities in the Artisanal Fisheries - Case of Marine Protected Areas, Malaysia." He explained that the panel discussion built knowledge with participants from various countries and provided practical solutions to coastal problems. Prof. Indah Susilowati hoped the participants would be active in the Summer Course by collecting book chapters and participating in a series of V2V-themed Summer Course activities. In her material entitled "Blue Economy, Blue Growth, Blue Justice," Prof. Indah showed a survey map of blue economy and blue growth in Tambak Bulusan and Morodemak, Demak Regency.
On October 4th, 2024, students, early career researchers, professors, and others in academia travelled to the Demak region of Indonesia to visit the village of Tambak Bulusan. This village on the north side of Java Island heavily relies on the production of capture fisheries for their livelihood. During our visit to this community, participants visited tourist areas, including the diverse mangrove forests containing over 30 species of mangroves and Istambul beach that backs onto the Java Sea. During the visit to the mangrove forests and Istambul beach, participants had in-depth discussions with fishery and aquaculture leaders from Tambak Bulusan, who discussed how the management of the community fishery was conducted, carried out, and sustained. Once participants returned from the mangrove forests and Istambul beach, everyone gathered with community members for a traditional Indonesian lunch, including fresh fish, clams, prawns, and crabs caught in the community. After a fantastic lunch, participants discussed with fisher wives, fish traders, fish processors, fishers, and other community members. Discussions were centered around community development, how individuals in the community perform daily activities, and how community members adapt to the ever-changing environmental conditions. These discussions helped participants improve their knowledge about the importance of coastal communities within Indonesia.
From October 5th to 7th, 2024, the same students, early career researchers, professors, and other academic professionals traveled to the Jepara Region of Indonesia to an island called Karimunjawa. During these three days, participants stayed on the island of Karimunjawa and explored, discussed, and collaborated with conservation officials, fishers, and community members while also exploring the local ecological systems of Karimunjawa. Discussions with conservation authorities included discussing the unique characteristics and importance of conserving the natural environment of Karimunjawa, as it is an ecological hotspot for many marine, bird, and terrestrial species. Participants then discussed their daily activities, fishery management, how they adapt to environmental conditions, what fish species they target, and what seasons of the year are most productive for them with fisher communities in Karimunjawa. Participants were treated to local cuisine from the community during discussions while also seeing fishers use and explaining the gear, fish, and areas where fishers performed their activities. One of the most memorable and incredible experiences of the Summer Course during our visit to Karimunjawa island was the opportunity to explore the rich diversity of the Karimunjawa ecological system. During this exploration, participants had the opportunity to travel to various islands within the surrounding waters of Karimunjawa, while also having the opportunity to go snorkeling at a coral reef and explore the diversity of the marine systems in Karimunjawa. Participants were also treated to a lunch of locally caught fish from the waters surrounding Karimunjawa on an island with an incredible view of the Java Sea and its eye-catching colours. The time spent in Karimunjawa enlightened participants about the importance of preserving the ecological systems of Karimunjawa and the various coastal communities in Indonesia.
Overall, this V2V Summer Course brought together participants from over ten countries to collaborate on the topic of transitioning coastal communities from vulnerability to viability within Indonesia. Through discussions with various coastal fishing communities in two different regions of Indonesia, participants were able to expand their knowledge, ideas, and understanding of the complex and diverse problems within these communities and the multidisciplinary approaches needed to address them. Participants throughout the Summer Course made lasting connections with community members and each other that will continue in the future, helping build further collaboration, information sharing, and excitement about the ever-important issues and topics of transitioning coastal communities from vulnerability to viability. Dr. Indah was very pleased that this Summer Course was a great success, and she looks forward to welcoming students from around the globe for many more years to explore and learn about Indonesia's culture, diversity, and fisheries.
V2V Members at the SSF Summit 2024, FAO, Rome
The Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) Summit took place in FAO, Rome, on 5 – 7 July 2024 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines) to advance priority actions for sustainable small-scale fisheries. Over 300 SSF community members, practitioners, academia, researchers, policy and civil society members participated in the SSF Summit. Several V2V Global Partnership members participated at the SSF Summit, which included but was not limited to Ratana Chuenpagdee, Svein Jentoft, Tony Charles, Kafayat Fakoya, Cornelia Nauen, Maarten Bavinck, and Lilian Ibengwe.
The Small-Scale Fisheries (SSF) Summit 2024 was a pivotal event that sought to transform from mere discussions to a collective endeavor with a common objective: advancing the implementation of the SSF Guidelines. In recognition of the 10th anniversary of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines), this 2nd SSF Summit was dedicated to not only acknowledging this milestone but also assessing the current status of the SSF Guidelines implementation at the national, regional and global level to inform future actions. It will also continue to serve as a global platform to collaboratively address governance and development challenges in small-scale fisheries while proposing and sharing solutions to foster and strengthen the implementation of the SSF Guidelines.
The SSF Summit helped embrace the interconnected nature of the SSF Guidelines with other relevant international normative frameworks, addressing vital aspects such as social development, climate change, biodiversity, customary rights, and contributions to food security and poverty eradication. The focus of the 2nd SSF Summit was on Chapter 5a – Responsible Governance of Tenure, with an emphasis on Customary Tenure, and Chapter 6 – Social development, employment and decent work, with a focus on social development. This was the result of a participatory consultation process with small-scale fishers, their organizations and/or representatives, and relevant stakeholders on what should be discussed at the 2nd Summit.
The SSF Summit serves primarily as a platform for small-scale fisheries movements but also allows engaging with governments and other small-scale fisheries advocates in an accessible and nontechnical forum, complementing the proceedings of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) as well as other relevant processes.
The 2nd SSF Summit builds on the 1st SSF Summit held on 2-4 September 2022 in Rome, Italy, during the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022 (IYAFA 2022)1. Attended by 145 participants from 47 countries (mainly small-scale fishers and stakeholders’ representatives), the 2022 SSF Summit raised awareness of the role of small-scale fisheries, enabled discussions to strengthen interaction, empowered small-scale fisheries stakeholders to take action and build new and strengthen existing partnerships. It also advanced the visibility and uptake of the SSF Guidelines and required actions towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 1st SSF Summit was made possible through the collaboration between the International Planning Committee for Food Sovereignty (IPC) Working Group on Fisheries, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), the Small-Scale Fisheries Resource and Collaboration Hub (SSF Hub) and the technical support by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). For the 2nd SSF Summit, SwedBio has joined the organizing committee. The 1st SSF Summit was held prior to the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI) 35th Session on 5-9 September 2022, and some government representatives joined for its last day. The COFI 35th Session emphasized ‘the unique opportunity to gather commitments and recommendations at a Summit on small-scale fisheries, which is encouraged to be held every two years prior to COFI, subject to resourcing, to sustain and inform continued support to the sub-sector’.
Our Happy Journey: Exploring Happiness with Dr. Rekhi Singh and Dr. Manas Mandal
By Greeshma Prakash Sherly, Master’s Student, University of Waterloo, Canada
Attending both the Science of Happiness talk by Dr. Rekhi Singh and an interactive session with Dr. Manas Mandal provided invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of happiness and wellbeing. These sessions not only expanded my understanding of happiness but also equipped me with practical tools to foster personal and professional growth.
Dr. Rekhi Singh's presentation resonated deeply with me, especially during a time of internal struggle as an international student. His simple yet profound insights, such as the concept of the "monkey brain," shed light on the challenges we face in maintaining focus and motivation. His emphasis on not allowing the "monkey brain" to dominate our thoughts was particularly impactful, urging us to navigate through our internal struggles with resilience and determination. Additionally, his emphasis on empathy as a cornerstone for happiness and success highlighted the importance of fostering meaningful connections within our team and beyond. His presentation was extremely engaging, accepting the wide perspective of the audience, which further enhanced its impact and resonance.
The motivational story of the eagle living among chickens served as a powerful metaphor for realizing our true potential. Dr. Singh's message of embracing our innate abilities and daring to pursue our dreams resonated deeply, igniting a sense of determination and empowerment within me and my colleagues. His closing words, urging us all to soar like eagles and support each other in our journeys, infused the room with a sense of collective purpose and solidarity.
Moreover, the serendipitous encounter with Dr. Manas Mandal during Dr. Rekhi's presentation, where he was introduced as Dr. Rekhi's mentor, added an unexpected layer of significance to our interactions. It was a pleasant surprise to realize that I would have the opportunity to engage with him personally later.
Following that, we, the V2V student group, later met Dr. Mandal informally at Grad House to share more about happiness, fostering a deeper connection and reinforcing the lessons learned during our session. This casual setting allowed us to engage in more personal discussions, share our own experiences, and gain further insights from Dr. Mandal’s expertise.
The meeting with Dr. Manas Mandal provided a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of human emotions and behaviour. His description of the Six Basic Emotions and guidance on self-exploration offered practical strategies for unlocking our true potential and navigating life's complexities. His personal definition of happiness as the ability to feel all six emotions underscored the richness and depth of human experience, encouraging us to embrace the full spectrum of our emotions as we strive for happiness and fulfilment.
Finally, on behalf of the V2V student team, I express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Prateep Kumar Nayak and Dr. Derek Armitage, our mentors, for orchestrating these invaluable opportunities. Witnessing individuals like Dr. Rekhi and Dr. Mandal, passionately working towards the happiness and well-being of others was truly inspiring. Overall, both sessions served as catalysts for personal and professional growth within our V2V research team. By delving into the science of happiness and exploring its implications for our project, we gained valuable insights and practical tools for fostering collaboration, resilience, and innovation. Gratitude is extended to Dr. Rekhi Singh, Dr. Manas Mandal, Dr. Prateep Kumar Nayak and Dr. Derek Armitage for their invaluable contributions to our journey of discovery and growth.
V2V Participation at PECS-3: Pathways to Sustainability Conference 2024, Montreal, Canada
Dr. Derek Armitage and Dr. Micaela Trimble chaired a symposium titled “Small-Scale Fisheries Transitions: Resilient Pathways, Governance Innovations and Blue Justice” during the PECS-3: Pathways to Sustainability Conference 2024. The Symposium featured talks presented by V2V members, Dr. Prateep Nayak, Dr. Melissa Marschke, Dr. Deborah Prado, and Dr. Ella-Kari Muhl. The talks addressed the important role of coastal fisheries in supporting the livelihoods and food security needs of millions of people. The aim of this session was to identify and interrogate potential pathways and transitions towards socially just and ecologically resilient small-scale fisheries particularly the equity and justice tensions, barriers, and strategies associated with governance interventions, as well as co-production processes fostering those transitions.
V2V joins the celebrations for the commissioning of the ACECoR building complex
Contributed by: Richmond Korang, Lois Akosua Blay and Cindy Awuni from UCC, Ghana
A momentous occasion unfolded at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on November 10, 2023, as the Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (ACECoR) Building Complex was officially commissioned. The ceremony marked a significant achievement under the visionary leadership of the current Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong. The grand occasion was a testament to the commitment of the University, with the ACECoR building standing as a symbol of the University's dedication to advancing maritime research and conservation. The multi-purpose structure, a product of meticulous planning and execution, was made possible through collaborative efforts with the World Bank and the Government of Ghana, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence. The ceremony commenced with dignitaries, faculty members, and esteemed guests gathered at the entrance of the new ACECoR building. Professor Boampong expressed his gratitude for the collaborative support that made the construction of the building complex possible. He underscored the vital role ACECoR would play in shaping the future of maritime research and conservation at UCC. Keynote speakers included representatives from the World Bank, the Government of Ghana, the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) program, and the Director of CCM-ACECoR, Prof. Denis Aheto, among others, who commended the University's commitment to promoting sustainable development through initiatives such as this. The building complex, research facilities, lecture halls, library, and state-of-the-art laboratory are poised to become a hub for cutting-edge research in maritime and environmental science. As the ribbon was ceremoniously cut, marking the official opening of the ACECoR Building Complex, a sense of pride and anticipation filled the atmosphere. The attendees toured the facility, admiring the potential it held for fostering interdisciplinary research and nurturing the next generation of scholars. The ceremony concluded with a sense of optimism for the future. The ACECoR Building Complex stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit between academia, international institutions, and the government in advancing the frontiers of knowledge. It is poised to be a beacon of academic excellence, contributing significantly to the University's global standing in sustainability research and conservation efforts.
INAUGURAL LECTURE BY PROF. DENIS WORLANYO AHETO: “OUR OCEANS: SECURING A COMMON FUTURE THROUGH TRANSFORMATIVE RESEARCH"
Contributed by: Richmond Korang, Lois Akosua Blay and Cindy Awuni from UCC, Ghana
On Thursday, November 9, 2023, the School of Medical Sciences Auditorium at the University of Cape Coast hosted the inaugural lecture of CCM-ACECoR’s Director, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto. The distinguished gathering, comprising scholars, students, and esteemed guests, witnessed Professor Aheto's profound discourse on "Our Oceans: Securing a Common Future Through Transformative Research." Professor Aheto commenced by elaborating on the intricate challenges faced by our oceans, emphasizing environmental degradation and overexploitation as critical threats. Yet, the lecture pivoted towards optimism as he unveiled transformative research initiatives aimed at mitigating marine pollution, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable fisheries. As part of the inaugural lecture celebrations, Prof. Aheto engaged the University community, development partners, CSOs, and all at his Inaugural Lecture at the University of Cape Coast (UCC)’s School of Medical Sciences Auditorium in the afternoon. This event was preceded by an exhibition of his scholarly works in the foyer of the C. A. Ackah Lecture Halls. As part of the lecture, Professor Denis Aheto also released a book that summarizes his life and career. As the inaugural lecture came to an end, there was a sense of purpose in the air. Professor Aheto’s vision of a future where oceans are respected as vital ecosystems made an impression on everyone. The event not only marked a milestone for Professor Aheto but also ignited a shared commitment to protecting our oceans. This commitment goes beyond boundaries and national borders. To summarize, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto’s inaugural lecture was a step towards preserving our oceans. It provided a roadmap for groundbreaking research that resonates with all fields and inspires us all to work towards a sustainable and secure maritime future.
Centre for Coastal Management hosts the 3rd annual conference on fisheries and coastal environment
Contributed by: Richmond Korang, Lois Akosua Blay and Cindy Awuni from UCC, Ghana
The Centre for Coastal Management—Africa Centre of Excellence in Coastal Resilience (CCM-ACECoR) of the University of Cape Coast hosted the 3rd Annual Conference on Fisheries and Coastal Environment (CFCE) from November 6–8, 2023, at the Mensvic Grand Hotel in Accra, in partnership with the World Bank, WACA, Feed the Future Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity (USAID-FTFGFRA), and Vulnerability to Viability Global Partnership Program, among other partners. Distinguished participants, encompassing marine scientists, policymakers, environmentalists, and industry experts, gathered under the thematic umbrella of "Inclusive Blue Economy in Africa: Towards Sustainable Transformation and Resilience of the Marine Environment." The conference inauguration featured keynote addresses from eminent figures, notably Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, as well as Prof. Rosemond Boohene, the Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC). In his address, Dr. Bawumia stated that he believes Ghana's ocean must be conserved; hence, the government is seriously controlling the fishing industry. He also indicated that the government has started several initiatives to combat IUU fishing in our waters. “We are strictly supervising foreign fishing vessel licensing, including their gear, where they fish, and license status. Some foreign vessels have already been denied licenses”, he stated. Prof. Denis Aheto, the director of CCM-ACECoR, spoke in his keynote address about the enormous advantages of the ocean to the nation, including fishing, tourism, and employment, and how these advantages are at risk due to the degradation of Ghana's coastal landscape. To curb the degradation of the ocean, he also highlighted a number of policies and interventions the government is implementing, including a $150 million investment in the West Africa Coastal Area (WACA) to stem the tide of coastal degradation, the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in our waters, as well as strict regulation and licensing of foreign fishing vessels. Panel discussions underscored the imperative of inclusivity in policy formulation, recognizing the unique cultural and economic facets of each coastal region.
The deliberations highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive approach to sustainable fisheries management. Technological innovations designed to enhance sustainable practices in the fishing industry were unveiled, ranging from advancements in monitoring systems to ecologically responsible gear designs. These technological advancements offer tangible solutions to combat overfishing and promote responsible resource management. Break-out sessions provided a platform for participants to establish collaborative partnerships. Representatives from government bodies, non-profit organizations, and private enterprises pledged concerted efforts towards the shared goal of advancing a sustainable blue economy in Africa. There was also a session for the Centre’s partners to exhibit their products and services at the conference venue, as well as poster presentations where students and professionals in the field spoke to some of the research conducted on Blue Economy-related topics. The conference's conclusion marked not just the termination of deliberations but the initiation of a collaborative journey towards a more sustainable future. The collective efforts catalyzed during these proceedings are poised to propel Africa towards a harmonious coexistence with its coastal ecosystems, fostering resilience and sustainable development. In summary, the 3rd Annual Conference on Fisheries and Coastal Environment played a role in advancing our pursuit of a sustainable future. The commitments and vision expressed during this meeting are expected to have a lasting impact on the continent, leading Africa towards a more environmentally conscious connection with its coastal resources.
V2V First In-Person Project Meeting in Puri, India
Our first in-person meeting of the V2V Global Partnership concluded successfully in Puri, Chilika Lagoon, Bay of Bengal, India. Eighty member of the Partnership, who came from Africa, Asia, Europe and Canada, worked together for a whole week from 7 – 11 August 2023 to make this event memorable.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who were able to attend the V2V meeting in Puri. The meeting provided a valuable platform for us to make significant progress, plan for the future, and reflect on our journey together as the V2V family. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions to this milestone event, which has further strengthened our commitment to supporting small-scale fisheries worldwide.
Welcoming Dr. Manas Kumar Mandal as a V2V Visiting Fellow under the "Paul Onyango V2V Visiting Fellows Program for Senior Scholars and Practitioners"
V2V Global Partnership Secretariat welcomed Dr. Manas Kumar Mandal, a cognitive neuropsychologist serving as a distinguished professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur. He visited the University of Waterloo under the "Paul Onyango V2V Visiting Fellows Program for Senior Scholars and Practitioners". During Dr. Mandal's visit, a series of engaging activities took place, including a networking session with V2V Global Partnership students entitled "Communicating Science: Difficulties & Challenges", as well as a public lecture titled "Decoding Happiness: Understanding The Science Behind…".
These events fostered invaluable knowledge and experience sharing on methodologies, happiness, and well-being, and served to strengthen the collaboration between the V2V Global Partnership and the Rekhi Centre of Excellence for the Science of Happiness. This visit aimed to advance academic linkages and enhance mutual understanding in these vital fields.
Participating in the XIX Biennial IASC Conference entitled "The Commons We Want"
The XIX Biennial IASC Conference entitled "The Commons We Want: Between Historical Legacies and Future Collective Actions" was held from June 19 - 24, 2023, in Nairobi, Kenya. Several V2V Global Partnership members participated in this conference and contributed to numerous panels, sessions, and papers:“The Vulnerability To Viability Approach: Understanding the processes of building strong small-scale fishery commons”. Through a series of contributed papers, this session aimed to further extend the notion of Vulnerability To Viability (V2V) by, first, characterizing small-scale fisheries as commons and, second, drawing key elements from the commons theory to further develop the V2V transition approach, and offer conceptual directions on how small-scale fisheries systems can transition from vulnerability to viability. Organized and chaired by Prateep Kumar Nayak. “Seeing commons as a process: The Commonisation-decommonisation perspective”. This double panel focused on furthering our understanding of commons as a process and reflected on theorizing commonisation-decommonisation as an analytical tool to examine multiple possibilities around making or breaking the commons. It also underscored the importance of a commons approach to facilitate our search for tools that enable the transition toward viability.
