Mastering the foundations of sustainable forest monitoring!
Hosted by the FAO elearning Academy, from 7 May – 6 June 2025, the course explored the importance of institutionalizing a robust national forest monitoring system (NFMS) with a focus on transparency, sustainability and data sharing. A self-paced version of this learning journey is now available.
Hear from participants
Gad Okodi
This course equipped me with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of a robust National Forest Monitoring System (NFMS). I'm excited to apply the concepts and tools learned in this course to support sustainable forest management and climate action initiatives in Uganda and beyond. In my work, I plan to utilize the skills acquired to enhance data collection, analysis, and reporting on forest resources. This will enable informed decision-making and policy development, ultimately contributing to the achievement of Uganda's forestry sector goals and objectives.
Yuri Muchanchi
Proud to have completed FAO's National Forest Monitoring Systems (NFMS) training! Over the last few weeks, I've learned more about how governments can sustainably institutionalize forest data using legal, strategic, and operational frameworks. With forests at the heart of climate action and sustainable land use, this training helped me improve my abilities in forest governance, environmental policy, and data sharing frameworks.
Ernnie Gondwe
I’m thrilled to share that I have successfully completed the Institutionalization of Forest Data course under the FAO AIM4Forests initiative! This course has deepened my understanding of how reliable, inclusive, and country owned forest data systems play a critical role in sustainable forest management, policy development, and climate action. As a Young Forest Champion, I am committed to applying this knowledge to support data driven forest restoration, improved community engagement, and evidence based advocacy in Zambia and beyond.
Antony Aluvale
I'm glad to have successfully completed the FAO course on National Forest Monitoring Systems (NFMS) and to be awarded a Recognition Badge in this vital field. As a forester, I strongly recognize the urgency and importance of institutionalizing national forest data systems. Accurate, consistent, and accessible forest data underpins evidence-based policy, enhances forest governance, and supports sustainable forest management.
Sheyna Martinez
I’ve successfully completed the FAO e-learning course Institutionalization of Forest Data. This journey has deepened my understanding of sustainable forest management, and the importance of reliable data for climate action.
Forests are not just resources – they are life, culture, and hope for a greener future. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and contributing to a world where nature and people thrive together. Grateful to the FAO for providing free and high-quality learning opportunities to young people around the globe.
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Hildah Ikabongo
The resources/modules highlighted key insights including but not limited to the following: principles and elements for a sustainable National Forest Management System (NFMS) as well as the legal and institutional arrangements to operationalize an NFMS among other key highlights. Institutionalization of Forest data ensures and enables evidence-based policy making with regards to Forest conservation and restoration. It also equips stakeholders with the knowledge and necessary skills needed in halting deforestation.
Brenda Wangoe
After an intensive month of learning and research, I completed the FAO course on the Institutionalization of Forest Data. Over the course, I gained valuable insights into how countries can develop robust, transparent, and country-owned forest monitoring systems that support climate action, sustainable forest management, and informed policymaking. From understanding the Voluntary Guidelines on National Forest Monitoring (VGNFM) to exploring ways forest data can be mainstreamed into national planning, every session was a reminder that data is more than numbers, it’s power, it's accountability, and certainly it's action.
Faisal Khalid
This course deepened my understanding of building sustainable and institutionalized National Forest Monitoring Systems (NFMS), emphasizing transparency, inter-agency collaboration, legal frameworks, and long-term planning for effective forest governance. Grateful to the FAO, UK Government, and GEF for this excellent learning opportunity. I’m excited to apply this knowledge to support forest data systems that drive better policies and climate solutions.
Richard Godonou
Il offre une valeur ajoutée avec un contenu enrichi comprenant des sessions en direct, des forums de discussion, des vidéos, des quiz, et plus encore, permettant une expérience d'apprentissage dynamique et interactive.Ce cours tutoré en ligne met en évidence l'importance de l'institutionnalisation d'un système national de suivi des forêts SNSF) solide et durable au sein des pays, en établissant une base juridique, en fournissant un soutien financier et en développant un cadre institutionnel permanent pour assurer une mise en œuvre et un fonctionnement efficaces.
Samuel Tahinduka
I am pleased to share that I successfully completed the online facilitated course "Institutionalization of Forest Data" offered by FAO eLearning Academy. As a Young Forest Champion, I believe that forest data is crucial in the modern sustainable forest governance. The course enhanced my understanding and skills in utilising forest data and information for evidence-based policy and decision making, transparency, and accountability. This approach is critical to tackling deforestation and land degradation. This is such a huge opportunity to grow and contribute more significantly to climate and forest action.
Maanda Elizabeth Sianga
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve just completed the FAO Institutionalization of Forest Data course! This course has been an invaluable journey in understanding how to build strong, sustainable frameworks for forest data management. Institutionalizing forest data is key to ensuring transparency, coordination, and long-term success in national forest monitoring systems. I’m excited to apply these insights to help strengthen forest governance and contribute to more effective, inclusive, and sustainable forest management which is essential for tackling deforestation and supporting climate goals. A big thank you to FAO for offering such a well-structured and impactful program. Looking forward to leveraging this knowledge for positive change.
Patricia Duran
Yo también! Acabo de concluir el curso online "Institucionalización de datos forestales". En honor a la verdad, ya lo había llevado, en paralelo al trabajo en Serfor Perú. Esta vez, lo tomé libre de presiones y he identificado MUCHAS ACCIONES POR IMPLEMENTAR para MI INFFS! He encontrado herramientas útiles y he prestado especial atención a las experiencias de otros países. Veo excelentes oportunidades para una colaboración Sur-Sur!!! Gracias FAO!!!
Mwiya Simataa
A perfect time to obtain the Institutionalization of Forest Data certification with FAO. This course is timely especially when the world currently faces alarming rates of forest degradation. It further focused on unpacking a detailed account of the National Forest Management System (NFMS). This comprehensive framework is designed to support countries in monitoring their forests for sustainable management, climate action, and policy development. Empowered with the capacity to better appreciate the Institutionalization of forest data as a whole remains crucial for collective and effective forest management efforts.
At a glance
Calendar: It was a 4-week flexible learning journey with an expected daily workload of just one hour.
Languages: Simultaneously delivered in English, French and Spanish.
Certification and final test: Participants wrapped up they learning journey with competency-based final tests. They earned a digital badge after successfully passing the final test with a score of 75 percent or more.
Course structure
There were three sequential modules on the NFMS:
- Overview
- Institutionalization
- Approach and strategy
Relevant learning activities included: videos, readings, quizzes, discussion forums and live sessions with experts. This course expanded on the ideas introduced in FAO’s Voluntary Guidelines on National Forest Monitoring.
Learning objectives
- Develop a deep understanding of NFMS key elements, governance, best practices and data-sharing strategies
- Apply strategic and legal tools effectively to strengthen institutional arrangements
- Contribute to improving data-sharing and transparency, thereby ensuring long-term success in forest monitoring.
Video
Institutionalization of forest data: Online facilitated course
14/03/2025
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations presents the “Institutionalization of forest data” online facilitated course. This course...
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