CMAC specialists begin refresher training course
MORE than 50 demining specialists from the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) have begun a three-week training course which focuses on the safe disposal of landmines and cluster bombs.
The demining operators will employ their updated skills to carry out upcoming missions in five provinces: Battambang, Pursat, Kampong Thom, Preah Vihear and Siem Reap.
CMAC director-general Heng Ratana said on February 7 that the course will provide a refresher on the unique skills needed to detect and destroy two specific types of munitions, and will increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the centre’s staff as they work to provide safety to the Cambodian people.
He said the 56 trainees are all drawn from CMAC demining units.
“The purpose of the training is to further strengthen the technical capacity of our demining specialists, so they can ensure our operations run smoothly and successfully,” he added.
Once the course is complete, the graduates will take part in search operations in the five provinces. CMAC is currently preparing final operational plans and logistics for the work.
On the same day, February 6, 20 demining instructors began a 19-week course which covers seven core subjects. The participants have all been previously trained as instructors.
Ratana encouraged all of the attendees of both courses to pay close attention, saying they should use their new-found knowledge for the benefit of themselves and the centre.
Since the beginning of the year, the Kingdom has already seen at least two incidents involving landmines, the tragic reminders of the wars of the past. At least four people were injured, some of them seriously.
The two CMAC courses are being held at the Technical Institute of Mine Action (TIMA) in Kampong Chhnang province.