Prof. Dr. Worawitoo Meesook from the Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, led the project Training Workshop for Trainers: Enhancing Snake Knowledge and Handling Skills. The project was supported by Save The Snakes, USA, through the Save The Snakes Vijayan Devan Southeast Asian Snake Conservation Grant Program 2024. It was conducted on 27–28 May 2025 at Betong Industrial and Community Education College in Yala Province, southern Thailand. The project brought together partners from academic, government, wildlife, media, and community sectors, including the Department of Fisheries, Nick Wildlife, a Thai environmental influencer, Betong Lovely Animals Club, and Na Giant Snake Farm. This collaboration aimed to strengthen local knowledge, practical skills, and public engagement for snake conservation and biodiversity protection.
The workshop combined classroom learning with practical training activities. Participants learned about snake ecology, species identification, the ecological importance of snakes, and appropriate responses when snakes are encountered in residential areas. Training also covered safe snake-handling techniques, snakebite first aid, and safe, humane snake relocation. Practical sessions enabled participants to develop confidence in handling snakes under the supervision of experienced trainers. Micro-teaching activities were included to help participants practice communicating accurate snake-related information to different audiences. The project also provided educational activities for students at Betong Industrial and Community Education College. These activities encouraged participants to share conservation knowledge and promote safe coexistence between people and snakes.
A total of 30 participants completed the training and developed knowledge and skills in snake ecology, identification, safe handling, and community communication. The trained participants became local communicators who could provide accurate information and encourage communities to avoid killing snakes unnecessarily. Some participants later organized outreach and training sessions for Civil Defence Volunteers in Bannang Sareng Municipality and Yupo Subdistrict, Yala Province. Conservation messages were further shared through the “Sang Kon Sue Ngoo” Facebook page, online news platforms, and regional television channels. The project increased public awareness of the ecological role of snakes and the importance of protecting them. By promoting safe relocation and reducing fear-based snake killing, the project contributed to the conservation of snake populations. Overall, the initiative supported the maintenance of ecosystem biodiversity by strengthening community capacity to live safely and responsibly alongside wildlife.
Related Links / Supporting Evidence:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&si=W_fl9MeYfQ9ibkVw&v=pSIvgiL6e18&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7dhpbu13rc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyvfZmbkr9M
Information Provider: Asst.Prof.Dr.Worawitoo Meesook