Twenty-six boat operators and their crews from five wards in the Duke of York (DOY) local level government (LLG) in Kokopo District of East New Britain OY LLG are undergoing an intensive training this week, starting Monday, July 15. Hosted at the Kokopo Fire Station from July 15th to 19th, the training is part of the Building Resilience to Climate Change (BRCC) program, according to the provincial administration. The goal? To ensure these seafarers can safely navigate the waters and handle their boats with confidence. This is the third rollout of the BRCC program, following successful initiatives in Milne Bay and Morobe provinces. Thirteen boats will be gifted to the Mioko Palpal, Mioko Virian, Moalim, Utuan, and Karawara wards upon the completion of the training. The BRCC program, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and supported by the East New Britain Provincial Administration (ENBPA), aims to bolster the skills and safety of local boat operators. ENB Deputy Provincial Administrator for Socio-Economic Services (SES), Marakan Uvano, highlighted the importance of this training during his opening remarks. "Climate change is impacting everyone and everything - from agriculture to the economy and our health." "This training is vital for ensuring safety at sea, maintaining boat standards, and reducing risks during travel.” He further expressed gratitude to ADB and its partners for their support. "The first part of the program includes the presentation of the boats and this week-long training.” "These boats will sustain community livelihoods." "The next phase will focus on sustainable fisheries and food security, followed by improving communication within the islands and with authorities when issues arise." Meanwhile, Florence Paisparea, ENBPA Coordinator of the Natural Resources Management and Development (NRMD) Unit, emphasized that the training will cover navigation skills, first aid, and boat engine maintenance. "The boats will be registered and licensed under the Small Craft Act, with plate numbers to help identify them if they go missing.” With these efforts, the boat operators of DOY LLG are set to navigate the challenges of climate change and ensure safer seas for their communities.