Youngsters embrace ocean conservation at Aliwal Shoal
Aspiring conservationists are provided with direct exposure to marine science, citizen science, environmental education and ocean advocacy.
A new leadership programme is equipping young adults with the necessary knowledge, skills and practical experience to support the long-term protection of Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area (MPA).
Created and led by marine scientist Dr Michelle Carpenter, with funding from the Rufford Foundation and administrative support from Wild Alliance Africa, the programme provides aspiring conservationists with direct exposure to marine science, citizen science, environmental education and ocean advocacy.
“Aliwal Shoal is one of the most extraordinary marine environments in South Africa, yet many local people have never had the opportunity to experience it or become involved in its protection,” said Carpenter.
“Over time, I realised there was significant interest from young South Africans wanting to enter the marine conservation field, but with few pathways available to them. This programme was created to bridge that gap and build local capacity where it is desperately needed.”
Carpenter explained that Aliwal Shoal lies within a unique biogeographic transition zone where tropical and temperate marine ecosystems meet, creating exceptional biodiversity. As a result, the MPA provides critical habitat for numerous threatened and protected species, including ragged-tooth sharks, dusky sharks, sea turtles and rays such as the endangered shorthorned pygmy devil ray.
The area also contains important feeding, breeding, resting and cleaning station habitats that support marine populations throughout the region.
The leadership programme currently supports 13 participants from local communities. Although initial funding was available for only five placements, overwhelming interest highlighted a strong desire among young people to become involved in marine conservation.
To date, participants have completed a customised Aliwal Shoal oceanography course, scuba and freediving certification, citizen science and species-identification training, environmental education and community outreach initiatives.
Interns are also developing independent projects focused on marine conservation topics, ranging from shark and ray conservation to environmental education and biodiversity monitoring. This includes highlighting the value of sharks to marine ecosystems, with the detrimental impact that shark nets and drumlines have on the species.
Interest in the programme continues to grow, with enquiries already being received for future intakes. Individuals, organisations, schools and potential sponsors interested in supporting or participating in future internship opportunities are encouraged to get in touch to learn more about the programme and its ongoing conservation initiatives.
Follow Dr Michelle Carpenter on Instagram @mobulidmich or YouTube Living Blue; and keep updated on the Ocean Leaders on Instagram @aliwalshoal.oceanleadership.
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