Specialized training to strengthen surveillance

At the port of Toamasina, Customs officers received certificates after completing special training on the surveillance and control of goods and people.

This program will help improve control of what enters and leaves the port and make Customs work more efficient, according to the department’s official press release.

This initiative is part of the “Cargo and Passenger Control Program” (PCCP), organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). In early May, the National Gendarmerie and the Maritime and River Port Agency (APMF) also participated in this training in Toamasina.

This collaboration with UNODC is part of the Customs’ new strategic plan for 2025 to 2029. This plan aims to strengthen officers’ skills to better protect the borders.

With this training and enhanced cooperation, Customs aims to be more transparent and honest in its work. The administration also aims to ensure border security and protect the country’s natural resources.

Thanks to these efforts, the Port of Toamasina will be able to better combat fraud and smuggling. This will also help build confidence among companies that use the port for their trade.

To succeed, the Minister emphasized the need for strong collaboration between universities and businesses. “Involving industry from the very beginning of program development is essential to ensure that the skills taught are useful,” he said.

Sukon also reiterated the importance of preparing teachers and students for this new learning model.