Kochi: A training programme was organised for fisherfolk on converting water hyacinth, which poses a major threat to water bodies, into useful value-added products. The four-day programme was jointly organised by the Future Kerala Mission of Jain University, Kochi, and MPEDA–NETFISH.
The programme, held from May 19 to 22, saw the participation of 40 Scheduled Caste fisherfolk and their family members from Valanthakad in Ernakulam and Chemmannakary in Kottayam. In addition to hands-on training in manufacturing various products, sessions were also conducted on marketing, branding, and schemes for accessing technical and financial assistance.
The initiative aims to create awareness among fishing communities about the possibilities of producing value-added products from water hyacinth, while also promoting the ecological restoration of water bodies. The training forms part of the water hyacinth eradication initiatives being implemented under the leadership of former Ambassador and Future Kerala Mission Chairman Prof. Venu Rajamony and Dr. Tom Joseph, Director of New Initiatives at Jain University.
An expert team comprising Prof. Dr. G. Nagendra Prabhu, Scientific Advisor to Future Kerala Mission, and Dr. C.P. Rashmi, Deputy Director, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, led the training sessions.
The training programme has been designed in three phases. In the first phase, 120 selected participants will be trained in making handmade paper, pulp-based handicrafts, and woven products from water hyacinth. In the next phase, those demonstrating outstanding performance will receive advanced training to become master trainers. Opportunities will also be provided for interaction with experts, leading entrepreneurs, and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
An exhibition of products made by the participants during the workshop was organised as part of the valedictory function held on May 22. The closing ceremony was attended by Dr. J. Latha, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Jain University; Dr. Sreenath P.G., Deputy Director, MPEDA Regional Office; Dr. Joyce V. Thomas; Dr. Radhakrishnan Unni; Dr. K. Madhukumar, Finance Head and Joint Controller of Examinations, Jain University, among others. Starter kits and certificates were distributed to the trained participants.
