Forest School
An Introduction
The Forest School was established in 1950 with the objectives of providing
in-service training and courses for the staff of the Sarawak Forest
Department in the field of basic forestry practices such as silviculture,
surveying, mensuration, botany, wood science, timber technology, forestry
law and administration. The School also conducts induction courses for
staff who have just joined the Department as well as refresher courses
for serving staff to keep abreast with new development in forestry.
The relocation of the Forest School in 1976 to the 20-hectare site at
Semenggoh has enabled the school to expand and upgrade its facilities to
conduct more courses. The year 1993 saw the School conducting its first
pre-service Forest Guard Certificate Course. In mid-1999, the School moved
to its present site near the Agriculture Institute, Semenggoh.
Courses Conducted
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Forest Guard Certificate Course
Since its inception the Forest School's main task was to conduct in-service
courses for Forest Guards. Prior to 1993 the Course was of 6 months'
duration but later extended to one year. Forest guards completed their
training in July, 1998.
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Forest Ranger Course
Course duration is 3 months and is for Forest Guards who may be promoted to
Forest Rangers.
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Induction Courses
Induction courses are conducted when required for Senior Officers, Forest
Officers, Forest Rangers, Forest Guards and other staff.
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Promotion Courses
Promotion courses are conducted for Forest
Officers, Forest Rangers, Forest Guards and other staff who have been promoted.
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Refresher Courses
Refresher courses are also conducted for the various categories when
required.
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Surveying Course
This specialised course is meant for staff who are involved in surveying
and maintaining the boundaries of the forest reserves, protected forests,
national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
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National Parks and Wildlife Management Course
The first batch of 20 Forest Guards attended this short course in April 1998.
Eventually all Forest Guards will attend this course.
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Park, Recreation and Tourism Management Certificate Course
This course which commenced in 1999, is conducted jointly by the School
and Lincoln University, New Zealand with the
support from the Ministry of Tourism Sarawak.
Rules and Regulations
All trainees are governed by a set of rules and regulations laid down by
the School. Basically, these rules and regulations pertain to class
attendance, apparel, use of facilities and discipline.
Staff
The Forest School is headed by the Chief Instructor who is assisted by
five instructors and 23 supporting staff in managing the School and the
training programmes. Due to teaching staff constraints, especially in
specialized fields or subjects, the School relies on other staff from
within the Department to assist in lecturing and conducting the practical
and field work.
For further enquiry, please contact us