Jowar Coastal Leadership and Governance Fellowship Program

The Jowar Ecosystem Leadership and Governance Fellowship Program empowers stakeholders in municipalities, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and educational institutions to advance Ridge-to-Reef governance in the Philippines. Jowar means "tide" in Bengali, a South Asian language, and symbolizes the fluidity and interconnectedness of our actions. This initiative focuses on integrating ecological, social, and economic dimensions, emphasizing social equity and sustainable development for low-income households.

Objectives

1. Strengthen Ridge-to-Reef Governance:

   • Equip stakeholders with skills for sustainable management of ecosystems from uplands to coastal areas.

   • Promote integrated management that links land-based activities with coastal and marine environments.

2. Enhance Collaboration:

   • Build partnerships between municipalities, the PCG, and local schools to co-create solutions for environmental and governance challenges.

   • Facilitate knowledge sharing and joint initiatives leveraging each sector’s expertise.

3. Promote Social Equity:

   • Ensure marginalized and low-income households are represented in decision-making.

   • Support sustainable development strategies that improve livelihoods while protecting the environment.

4. Develop Local Leadership:

   • Train local leaders in policies and programs balancing environmental protection with socio-economic development.

   • Encourage the inclusion of women, youth, and underrepresented groups in leadership roles.

Program Components

1. Capacity-Building Workshops:

   • Workshops will enhance understanding of Ridge-to-Reef governance and the PCG’s role in maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, and disaster response.

2. Collaborative Planning Sessions:

   • Joint sessions will identify priority issues, develop integrated management plans, and address social equity by including low-income communities.

3. Field Immersions and Hands-On Training:

   • Participants will visit key sites to observe governance impacts and receive training on climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable practices.

4. Partnership Development:

   • Establish formal partnerships among municipalities, the PCG, and educational institutions to promote ongoing collaboration and multi-stakeholder approaches.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation:

   • Develop frameworks to track progress, assess outcomes, and ensure social equity and sustainability goals are met, with continuous feedback for adaptive management.

Intersection with the PCG

The PCG’s roles in maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, and disaster response are integral to the program. Collaboration will enhance environmental protection, disaster preparedness, and effective law enforcement within the Ridge-to-Reef framework.

Supporting Low-Income Households

The program emphasizes social equity by supporting sustainable livelihoods for low-income households through eco-friendly practices and ensuring their inclusion in policy-making. Social protection measures will safeguard these communities from environmental and climate impacts.

The Joar Fellowship Program aims to create a resilient and equitable future by integrating diverse stakeholders in Ridge-to-Reef governance and sustainable development.