ELEVEN rangers, nine men and two women, proudly graduated from the second phase of the Kokoda Track Authority’s (KTA) Ranger Capacity Development Project (RCDP) with a Certificate II in Conservation and Ecosystem Management in February 2024.
The rangers completed 24 months of intensive training that included 16 months of instructor contact time, multiple field components, camping and long hikes across rugged terrain as they carried out track maintenance and construction in the Kokoda Track region.
At the graduation ceremony, KTA Chief Executive Officer Julius Wargirai congratulated the new rangers.
He said the rangers would lead and support the upkeep and maintenance of the Track and its natural surroundings with their expertise in track maintenance and sustainable land management.
“This is the first of its kind for our KTA rangers.
“These rangers have proven to us, to KTA, that they are ready to be front and centre in managing the Kokoda Track, and they have given their full commitment towards this training under the RCDP,” Julius said.
“Their commitment towards the ranger training rightfully awards them this internationally recognised certification in conservation and ecosystems management.
“With the will that they have shown to come this far and receive this certification, they will continue to keep the track safe for both international trekkers and locals,” Julius added.
Female ranger Julie Fred said the advancement of the training blocks, lessons and practical sessions has improved her knowledge and understanding of the diverse responsibilities of a ranger in maintaining and protecting the environment and the wildlife.
“Coming this far in the ranger training program is a huge achievement for me, especially when we learn to understand that the work, we do along the Track is important for our environment and our livelihood as well.
“We’re learning a lot from these trainings,” Julie expressed.
The Australian Government supports the KTA RCDP through the Kokoda Initiative, a partnership between PNG and Australia to promote sustainable, inclusive development of the Kokoda Track region and protect its unique environmental, cultural, and military heritage.
KTA rangers manage and maintain the Kokoda Track, protect the region’s rich biodiversity, and preserve important cultural and military heritage.
With the added skills and knowledge gained from the Certificate II in Conservation and Ecosystems Management, the KTA rangers will take on more responsibilities, including community liaison, track maintenance and working with the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) to monitor the state of the environment.
