South African Association for Marine Biological Research celebrates 20 years

THIS year, the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), based at uShaka Marine World, celebrates its 20th anniversary of the uShaka Sea World Outreach Programme.

In 1993, while still based at the bottom end of West Street in Durban, the Sea World Education Centre, which forms part of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research, embarked on a programme aimed at introducing marine life to disadvantaged pupils and teachers in rural and peri-uran areas .

Now, 20 years later and based at uShaka Marine World, the outreach programme continues its vital work as each week dedicated uShaka Sea World educators load up their vehicles and in a specially designed trailer, set off into rural areas. Their travels take them as far afield as Sodwana Bay and Bergville where they often traverse dirt tracks to access the schools and community centres.

This marine outreach programme is a first in Africa and since it first started 20 years ago, 60 000 learners have been introduced to marine life through its unique programme.

Pupils and their educators are given a glimpse into a new fascinating, yet unknown world.

In addition to pupils, thousands of teachers have attended the specially designed workshops which equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary in order to effectively teach pupils about the sea.

In addition to outreach lessons in the community, a sponsorship programme was started in 1993 and since then more than 135 000 pupils have had the opportunity of a sponsored visit to Sea World.

Said Judy Mann, CEO of SAAMBR, and the person who initiated the Outreach Programme in 1993: “Our oceans are vital for survival on earth – but most people never think about the sea. The outreach programme gives pupils and their educators a glimpse into a new world, and lights a spark of interest in the ocean. We hope that the spark will begin a lifelong interest in the environment. By empowering people to care of the environment, SAAMBR is contributing towards building a more sustainable future for all South Africans.”