At Ocean Alliance Project, a big part of our mission is passing on knowledge and responsibility to the next generation. Having our keiki come do hands-on work with us, getting to explore their local marine ecosystems and learn about the cultural importance of them, helps us to empower and motivate our next generation of marine conservationists. 

This year, we have had the privilege of working with middle school students from the Hawaii Technology Academy. So far, we have done 2 sessions of our 8-Week Keiki Development Program. This is a hands-on learning experience designed to introduce the students to marine science, conservation, and the importance of caring for their local ecosystems.

Rather than learning about the ocean from a classroom alone, keiki spend eight weeks participating in the real work that marine researchers and conservationists do every day. Each week we focus on a different aspect of marine conservation, how it plays a role at OAP, and related field experience. 

A big part of this program is learning about how and why we monitor the health of our reefs. We learn about OAP’s ecological monitoring programs, practicing identifying reef fish and discussing the role of indicator species. We explore how scientists use observation and data collection to better understand reef health. 

Showing keiki what day to day work looks like as a marine scientist is a crucial part of this program. From observing and recording coral growth on nursery tables to identifying fish and coral species, they practice collecting and recording ecological observations.

Programs like this help students build the curiosity, confidence, and skills needed to become citizen scientists- people who contribute to environmental protection in their communities. 

Seeing keiki learn so much and really start to care is the best part of this program. By the end of the 8 weeks they were asking deeper questions, taking more initiative, and wanting to get involved more. Getting our keiki involved in marine conservation in any way is the next step for all of us in protecting our reefs.

Because the future of our oceans depends on the next generation’s actions as much as ours, we hope to continue to educate and involve our keiki as much as we can.

To learn more about our education programs, support our work, or bring this experience to your students, reach out to Ocean Alliance Project through our website or email us at abby@oceanallianceproject.org.