Students at the International School Suva (ISS) are being immersed in extensive ocean education from the very start of their academic journey. With the support of Whole School Ocean Coordinator Hannah Nanovu, the school is not just teaching about the ocean, but also nurturing a new generation of advocates for marine conservation.
Reflecting on her first year in this role, Nanovu shared her excitement about the evolution of the program and the establishment of the Ocean Learning Centre. This initiative is designed to build ocean literacy among students by amalgamating traditional knowledge and scientific understanding, which is essential in confronting the increasing threats of climate change and pollution.
The Oceans Program at ISS employs the Ocean Literacy Framework alongside the UN Ocean Decade Challenges, prioritizing experiential learning through field trips and practical activities. Students engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling, all of which are instrumental in helping them appreciate marine life and develop a lifelong respect for the ocean.
The program is thoughtfully structured, starting with six units of inquiry focused on ocean studies in primary education. This gradual approach enables students to progressively enhance their knowledge as they advance through grade levels.
Nanovu envisions the expansion of ocean literacy initiatives beyond the confines of ISS, aiming to spread these programs throughout Fiji and the broader Pacific region. She advocates for the incorporation of ocean education across all school subjects, underscoring its critical role in shaping the future of Pacific Island communities.
Last year, she initiated the ‘Veivueti Ocean Conference’ to provide students with a platform to tackle ocean challenges, conduct research, and showcase their findings on World Ocean Day. The event garnered positive feedback and participation from various schools and is set to become a staple in promoting ocean advocacy among youth.
Nanovu firmly believes that an ocean curriculum should be accessible to every child in the Pacific, empowering them to become knowledgeable future leaders and stewards of marine environments. By fostering a deep connection to the ocean, this program equips students with the essential insights needed to practice sustainability and confront the pressing issues endangering our oceans.
This initiative embodies a hopeful vision for enhanced ocean sustainability in the Pacific, inspiring collaborative efforts to empower young advocates committed to protecting the health of marine ecosystems for future generations. Through education and engagement, the potential to create lasting change in marine conservation is significant, positioning these students as pivotal players in the stewardship of the ocean.
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