In the Seychelles, Sharing Science to Extend the Expedition
In the Seychelles, Explorations de Monaco conducted a week of science outreach with more than 200 students as part of the 2022 Indian Ocean Mission.
Following the publication of the final report on the 2022 Indian Ocean Mission, Explorations de Monaco has opened a new chapter in this scientific adventure: sharing knowledge with the countries that hosted the expedition.
For a week, the team visited students on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue to share the mission’s findings and raise awareness among young people about the challenges of ocean conservation.
Observe, Understand, Act
More than 200 students participated in two workshops designed to promote learning through hands-on experience.
Using the Curiosity microscope created by the Plankton Planet association, they observed plankton and discovered the vital role these invisible organisms play in the functioning of the ocean.
The students then took part in a second workshop based on the educational kit “Plastic in the Ocean, Solutions Are on Land,” developed by the Tara Ocean Foundation. Through fun and collaborative activities, they explored the effects of plastic pollution on the marine environment and identified concrete steps to limit its impact.
A Youth Already Committed
This week also provided an opportunity to learn about the commitment of Seychelles schools to environmental education.
At Beau Vallon, a school participating in the Eco-School program, environmental issues are fully integrated into school life and the curriculum. This approach echoes the belief held by Les Explorations de Monaco: raising awareness from an early age is essential to building a lasting relationship with the ocean.
Ongoing cooperation
The week concluded with a meeting with Mr. Justin Zelime, Principal Secretary for General Education and School Curricula at the Seychelles Ministry of Education.
This discussion provided an opportunity to take stock of the initiatives carried out with students and to reaffirm the importance of strengthening ties among stakeholders in education, scientific research, and conservation. Ministry representatives praised the quality of this collaboration and expressed their commitment to continuing this dialogue.
Because a scientific mission does not end with the publication of its results. It truly comes into its own when the knowledge it generates is shared, embraced, and put to use for the benefit of all.
