Memorandum of Understanding Renewal Between IFSA and RECOFTC: Continued Journey!

On 4 November 2025, the International Forestry Students’ Association (IFSA) and RECOFTC – The Center
for People and Forests – held a ceremonial signing at Shangri-La Chiang Mai, Thailand, officially
renewing their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2025–2030 term.

Figure 1. Earl Justin Catibog (External Councilor of IFSA) and David Ganz (Executive Director of RECOFTC)
during the MoU signing ceremony (source: RECOFTC documentation)

This renewal marks the continuation of a collaboration that began in 2020, reaffirming both
organizations’ shared commitment to advancing youth engagement in forestry, climate action, and
community development across the Asia-Pacific region. The renewed MoU establishes a framework for
cooperation that aims to strengthen the role of young forestry professionals in promoting sustainable
and inclusive forest management.

Through this agreement, IFSA and RECOFTC will continue to collaborate in several key areas, including
the exchange of knowledge and updates on youth-led initiatives, providing access to mentorship and
professional networks, and organizing joint events, workshops, and forums that enhance youth skills and
participation in forestry-related activities. The partnership also supports youth-led research and
community-based projects that contribute to both forest sustainability and social well-being, while
fostering stronger cooperation between IFSA Local Committees and RECOFTC country programs.
Moreover, both organizations emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion by ensuring that
youth from underrepresented backgrounds are actively engaged in all initiatives.

Figure 2. The IFSA and RECOFTC teams gathered after the MoU renewal ceremony on 4 November 2025
at Shangri-La Chiang Mai, Thailand (source: RECOFTC documentation)

To maintain progress and accountability, IFSA and RECOFTC will hold regular meetings to plan, review,
and evaluate collaborative activities, ensuring that youth perspectives remain central to their shared
efforts. This continued partnership reflects a strong belief that forests and people thrive together, and
that empowering young leaders is essential to achieving a sustainable and equitable future for all.