In a three-day International Fisheries Congress, a call has been made to establish the Fisheries Council of India and create a National Fisheries Education Framework (NFEF). The NFEF aims to set minimum standards in fisheries education, covering curriculum, infrastructure, and manpower. The resolution emphasizes the need for teacher training and evaluation programs to equip educators with the latest technologies for effective content delivery and improved student interactions.
To keep pace with technological advancements, the congress recommends reformulating existing courses, including introducing subjects like data science, digital technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and business management as non-credit or elective courses. The emphasis is also on enhancing communication and managerial skills to boost entrepreneurship and employability.
The congress proposes improved data collection methods in the inland fishery sector and advocates for better relations between farmers and industries. Addressing climate change challenges in the Asia-Pacific aquaculture sector is highlighted, focusing on areas such as pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, food safety, certification, and technologies.
The congress recommends establishing a global network for climate resilience, incorporating artificial intelligence in disease surveillance and monitoring. T. Pradeepkumar, Vice Chancellor of KUFOS, states that the congress’s recommendations will be submitted to Central and State governments, as well as the Food and Agricultural Organization.
Furthermore, the congress strongly urges the State government to establish the Vembanad Lake Development Authority, similar to the Chilika Lake Development Authority, for the conservation, monitoring, and development of the Vembanad Lake Ecosystem. The resolution emphasizes that the Lake Development Authority should possess regulatory powers for effective execution of its responsibilities.
