Participatory problem analysis and action package formulation < Subjects
C3-Participatory problem analysis and action package formulation
Photo: Research Team
Overview
This participatory problem analysis will focus on co-designing an action package for nature-based solutions (NbS) in the Marshall Islands through stakeholder engagement. Given the unique socio-political structures of Pacific atoll countries, this study emphasizes local ownership, the integration of traditional knowledge, and adaptive governance.
Methodology
The main methodologies include:
- - Stakeholder Mapping and Networking: Identifying key actors (government agencies, NGOs, traditional leaders, and communities) to ensure inclusive participation of key stakeholders.
- - Toolbox Workshop: Conducting structured participatory sessions to collaboratively define local challenges and develop adaptation measures.
- - Problem Hierarchy Analysis: Prioritizing challenges and solutions using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP).
- - Verification and Policy Integration: Working with stakeholders to validate solutions and align them with national frameworks (e.g., the Marshall Islands' "Tile Til Eo 2050" climate strategy).
Interim Results
- - Naya Sena attended the Fourth United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) Conference held in Antigua and Barbuda from May 27-30, 2024, to assess the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in SIDS and define future strategies for resilience and sustainability.
- - On October 29, 2024, she hosted a workshop at the University of the Marshall Islands (CMI) in collaboration with the Student Affairs Office. The workshop fostered meaningful dialogue and provided students with practical insights for addressing real-world problems through science.
- - On February 26, 2025, at the CMI, a workshop focused on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science (UNDOS) from a Marshallese perspective. Naya Sena conducted a one-on-one mentoring session with marine science students and presented their individual research projects on coastal protection, biodiversity assessment, conservation, and climate resilience.
- -On June 27, 2025, a workshop was held to explain the progress of the project and seek further support, attended by relevant RMI government ministries involved in climate change policy, including the Climate Change Council, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Fisheries Resources Department, and attended by a secretary from the Japanese Embassy.
- -On July 2, 2025, Naya Sena served as a keynote speaker and panelist at the Climate Change Education Summit 2025, an event organized by CMI with the aim of strengthening climate change education in atoll countries. Her keynote speech, titled "Strategies for Integrating Climate Change Education," introduced various strategies for promoting climate literacy in SIDS, emphasizing the particular vulnerability of small island developing states (SIDS) to climate change and the importance of incorporating indigenous and local knowledge into education. A panel discussion was also held with Sena, Bertin Lakjong (National Program Coordinator, Climate Change Department), and Professor Linus Okoro (CMI STEM Lecturer).
Photo: Naya Sena presenting at the workshop.
