MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Grade Eight learners of Sao Bras High School in Mossel Bay recently received a visit from the iOcean Trust and engaged in an interactive environmental and ocean awareness programme.
The iOcean Trust launced its iHigh School Programme at Sao Bras, alongside various local collaborators such as Colin Marais of Blue Economy/Agriculture Economy, a team from the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), members of Lifesaving South Africa, The Surfer Kids group and the Skipper Foundation.
Marine and cultural expertise was provided by marine guides Chris Carr and Recardo Klein, alongside cultural adventure guide Eldridge Masoka, ensuring learners received both scientific and community-based perspectives of the ocean environment.
Sao Bras teachers Debra Jeffery and Henry Fredericks were also involved, particularly with learner engagement and following the life orientation curriculum.
Theo Vundisa, one of the iOcean Youth Ambassadors. Photo: Andrea Bradfield
The learners rotated through a series of interactive stations covering key topics such as plastic pollution, marine ecosystems, climate change, the role of whales in ocean health, marine protected areas and career opportunities within the ocean economy.
The response from the learners was overwhelmingly positive, and there were high levels of participation and curiosity.
Many learners expressed an interest in future careers linked to the ocean, including marine guiding and research, while also sharing broader aspirations such as healthcare and sport.
"This programme is about connection and possibility," said Andrea Bradfield of iOcean Trust. "When young people can see themselves in these spaces, whether through science, community work or leadership, it opens doors to both awareness and opportunity."
The programme was further strengthened with the help of some iOcean Youth Ambassadors, Brandon Malakota, Reilly Abrahams, Theo Vundisa, Yamkellani Romeo, Tarquin Bradfield and Wade Heunis, who played a role in facilitating peer-to-peer learning and engagement.
The iOcean Trust aims to expand the iHigh School Programme to more schools in the region, continuing to inspire the youth to become active protectors of South Africa's ocean heritage.
Tyran Moolman (far left), Cheswin Petersen (middle) and Chileab Chilli Bruintjies (right), lifeguards and members of a water safety awareness crew, engage with the Sao Bras learners. Photo: Andrea Bradfield
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