The first-ever marine science school in Vanuatu is underway this week at the National University in Port Vila.

The one-week training is being led by 20 marine science experts from France’s National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), and involves around 50 participants.

Participants include staff from key government departments such as Fisheries, Environment and Conservation, Meteo and Geo-Hazards, alongside students from the Vanuatu National University (VNU) and New Caledonia’s French University.

The training targets individuals with existing experience in the marine sector and sets the foundation for the official launch of Vanuatu’s first dedicated marine science program.

Acting Director of Fisheries, Sombert Gereva, said during the official opening last Friday that the school marks a milestone in the country’s marine development and sustainability goals.

The program is a collaboration between the Vanuatu National University, IRD, the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), and the Department of Fisheries.

French Ambassador to Vanuatu, Jean-Baptiste Vilmer, said the marine school reflects the strong and long-standing partnership between France and Vanuatu in ocean-related research and development.

This first Summer Marine Science Program is also part of Vanuatu’s commitment to marine conservation, using science to equip the next generation of marine scientists with the skills needed to safeguard a sustainable ocean future.