Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark responds to the 6th Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network Week (April 22–28, 2025).

The Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Week is an important annual event that reaffirms the shared mutual responsibility of geoparks in preserving heritage values and promoting sustainable development across the region. It also provides an opportunity for members to connect, share management experiences, and encourage conservation initiatives. Furthermore, the event serves as a moment for geoparks to reflect on their development journey, evaluate the effectiveness of their activities, and set strategic directions toward future sustainable development goals.

 In celebration of APGN Week, the Management Board of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark has rolled out a range of practical activities aimed at preserving and promoting local cultural values while enhancing livelihoods for the local community.A standout highlight is the advisory and support program for local residents and partner establishments focused on the conservation and development of traditional craft villages and community tourism in Dia Tren traditional paper village (Quang Hoa District). As part of the program, the Management Board of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark, in collaboration with local residents and geopark partners, has implemented various initiatives to preserve traditional craft villages, improve environmental sanitation, and enhance the local landscape. Key responsible tourism models have been implemented, including self-service product shelves, community-based environmental protection fund boxes, and informational signage for craft village tours. These initiatives not only help safeguard the cultural space of traditional villages and enrich the visitor experience, but also foster active community engagement and the involvement of local businesses in promoting responsible tourism within Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark.

As part of its activities in response to the Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network Week, the Management Board of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark organized a capacity-enhancing workshop aimed at improvingpresentation and guiding skills for local communities and geopark partners.During the training, participants were equipped with essential communication techniques, hospitality and visitor-guiding skills, methods for developing engaging site-specific presentations, and practical tools for organizing tours and handling real-life situations. The workshop also featured interactive discussions and hands-on exercises to help trainees deliver engaging and informative interpretations. This initiative plays a key role in building a professional team of local guides and fostering a welcoming, knowledgeable community at heritage sites—contributing to sustainable tourism, enhanced livelihoods, and the preservation and promotion of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark’s heritage value.

In particular, in order to raise awareness and responsibility of students and the community in preserving and promoting national cultural heritage, and at the same time promoting the unique values ​​of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark in the languages ​​of indigenous peoples, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism (the Management Board of Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark) in coordination with the Department of Education and Training organized the Contest "Preserving Tay and Nung ethnic languages ​​for junior high school and high school students in Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark". The contest attracted the participation of 57 "Geopark Ambassador" Clubs at secondary schools and high schools in the area. The contest not only is it an intellectual and creative playground but also creates a positive communication effect, attracting widespread attention, spreading the message of preserving the language and cultural heritage of ethnic minorities in the Geopark region.