Marine programme for youth well under way

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Oceans Research Foundation has secured its first corporate donor for its marine employability programme, called Sea the Change.

The programme started in March at Indwe Secondary School, KwaNonqaba, where the pilot programme was implemented.

After a tough selection process, four learners in Grade 12 have started their journey as the forerunners in what Oceans Research Director, Dr Enrico Gennari, refers to as the organisation's desire to "practically impact the community in view of a legacy for the future".

The programme, headed up by Sophu Qoma, the Outreach Officer for Sea the Change, is aimed at basic skills development including a qualification in Level 1 First Aid, lifesaving, pre-sea induction and marine mammal stranding.

The selection process was a tough one, comments Sophu, not only in terms of making a selection of only four candidates from the 67 hopefuls, but also regarding the process they had to undergo. "We specifically looked for young people with vision, zeal, a keenness to learn, an interest in conservation, a sense of commitment and of course basic fitness."

To date, the successful candidates have undergone training in swimming. "Training was at Santos Beach. At first, we were a little doubtful whether the interns would be able to overcome, but they have progressed so fast that some have moved into more rigorous training already."

Sponsor
Micro lending company Bay Loans has come forward to sponsor one of these four highly motivated Grade 11 learners undergoing their training.

"We appreciate what Oceans Research is doing and we are glad we can contribute to the change it is bringing about.

"We are happy to plough back into the community, to help effect positive change and this programme is unique and offers life skills and hopefully creates a lifelong love of the ocean and the environment," says Len Swanepoel, Managing Partner of Bay Loans.

According to Dr Gennari, every individual has a role to play and the youth of South Africa are very enthusiastic and resilient, when they are given opportunities. "We aim to create positive social impact, link with industry and create career paths and support the environment."

Lend a hand
To grow the programme, especially in terms of getting local buy-in, Oceans Research has enlisted the help of retired professionals in Mossel Bay and surrounds.