Sixty students from 19 secondary schools across Barbados have embarked on a first-of-its-kind, four-week programme aimed at shaping the island’s next generation of ocean advocates and innovators.
The new pilot, which was launched on Monday at the Oceana Innovation Hub headquarters in Bay Street, brings together young minds from across the country for an immersive experience in marine science, conservation, and advocacy under the banner of the Oceana Innovation Hub Summer Programme.
Che Greenidge, Head of the Oceana Innovation Hub, expressed her enthusiasm during the opening ceremony, describing the initiative as both timely and transformative.
“I feel like we’re shaping the next generation of ocean stewards, and I’m so excited to see all of the students here today. This pilot is very special, not only because of its innovative approach but because of the diversity that it represents,” she said.
Greenidge added, “We’re proud to have 19 different secondary schools from across Barbados participating in our summer pilot programme. Each of the 60 students registered, from both the senior and junior cohorts, will bring a unique voice and perspective. This is to ensure that the ideas, the creativity, and the energy that we cultivate over the next four weeks reflect the perspectives of our island’s future leaders — our young people.”
The curriculum will expose students to marine conservation, marine pollution, disaster management, the law of the sea, advocacy, and water safety. The programme includes a “learn to swim” component and a water safety certification aimed at building both confidence and respect for the marine environment.
“No one can fully appreciate the ocean without first feeling safe in it,” Greenidge explained. “Our learn-to-swim programme, and water safety certification — which will be for the stronger swimmers — will empower students with the confidence they need in open water, while also teaching respect for marine environments, the dangers of unsafe swimming conditions, and how they can navigate our seas and feel safe.”
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