In 2009, marine scientists Andrea Marshall and Simon Pierce decided to do their bit to protect threatened marine life. The result? The Marine Megafauna Foundation, whose educational arm in Mozambique focuses on raising awareness and educating a new generation of Ocean Guardians.
Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranked 185 out of 187 countries in the 2013 Human Development Index. 52% of the population are under 18 and the education system struggles to create good learning opportunities, especially on cross-cutting topics such as conservation. The country also has one of the world’s longest and most biodiverse coastlines. Yet illegal, unsustainable fishing practices are very common and pose a threat not only to wildlife but also to the livelihoods of hundreds of communities.
Creating the marine protectors of tomorrow
This is one of the reasons why manta ray specialist Andrea Marshall and whale shark conversation expert Simon Pierce decided to set up the Marine Megafauna Foundation. In Mozambique, its educational arm has a clear goal: raise a generation of guardians who understand and cherish the ocean through community engagement. The pilot education project reached over 2300 young Mozambicans and 7 schools have adopted an integrated marine conservation curriculum since 2012.
In January 2018, the Coral Reef Club for 16–21-year-olds was launched to provide vocational internships with local businesses and skills training for employment.
More information about Ocean Guardians in Mozambique?
Elsie Gabriel wants to move towards a more ocean- literate society. This young activist has created the Ocean Schools program in India for young people and local communities.
Proper Strand Lopers is a Belgian citizen’s initiative born from a Facebook group. Education and awareness-raising about beach waste is central to this.
Allowing both land and people to flourish, connecting traditional communities in the Amazon area, researchers and environmentally engaged groups is the goal of the Meli Network project. A flourishing cooperation inspired by the Meliponini bees.
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