UNODC Global eLearning Programme moves forward in East Asia



Bangkok (Thailand), 4 July 2012
- Drugs continue to be a major issue in Thailand with methamphetamine pills being the most commonly used drug in Thailand, followed by cannabis herb and inhalants. Seizures of crystalline methamphetamine have increased significantly during the past three years: from 53 kg seized in 2008, to 209 kg seized in 2009, 733 kg seized in 2010 and just over 1.2 metric tonnes in 2011. The spike in pill seizures is primarily due to the increase in methamphetamine pill trafficking from the Golden Triangle region over the past few years.

Recognizing the need to train large numbers of officers in basic law enforcement skills quickly and consistently, UNODC has worked with the countries of East Asia since 1997 to deliver this knowledge through computer-based training (CBT). As technologies have advanced, UNODC have now launched a new Global eLearning Programme that seeks to consolidate the good work of the past, update and develop new training modules and introduce users to a new UNODC Learning Management System.

On 12-13 June 2012, UNODC Project H15 - "Support for MOU Partnership in East Asia" - began a rollout programme of upgraded computer hardware, installed using existing UNODC CBT together with training in the use of the new software.



This first equipment upgrade was provided to Thailand's Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), which supported UNODC in organizing the training workshop and allowed the participation of officers from Border Liaison Offices responsible for drugs interdiction in Thailand.

"This is excellent modern training," said one beneficiary of the UNODC eLearning

It is expected that the addition of the CBT computers and software will enable more officers to be trained, allowing them to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to interdict drugs and disrupt illicit trafficking organizations. Later in 2012 new CBT modules will be produced in document examination and human rights to complement officers' existing drugs training.

UNODC Project H15 - "Support for MOU Partnership in East Asia" is being implemented across the six countries of the Greater Mekong Subregion (Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam). It aims to combat rising illicit drug problems. Donors to this project include all six GMS countries mentioned above and the Government of Australia.