On June 12th, the inaugural Veivueti Kids Ocean Conference took place at ISS, which provided an opportunity for students to come together and celebrate World Ocean Day. The event was orchestrated by our Ocean Coordinator Hannah Nanovu. This full-day event saw primary school students from five schools present their ocean-related projects, aiming to empower them to connect, learn from one another, and build a community focused on a common goal: Ocean Literacy.

The conference’s mission was to develop students’ knowledge and skills related to the ocean, fostering a deeper connection and commitment to marine environments. Given the critical state of global ocean health due to various negative human impacts, marine science education is crucial in raising awareness and understanding the importance of protecting our vulnerable marine ecosystems.

In April, participating schools were challenged to identify a UN Ocean Decade Challenge that resonated with them. They then connected this global challenge to specific issues in Fiji. After brainstorming with their peers, students chose a focus area to research, conducted field trips, consulted experts, and planned actionable steps over two months. On June 12th, they shared their learning journey and action plans with peers from the five different schools.

The day was expertly hosted by two Year 11 ISS students, Latina and Joshua, who ensured smooth transitions and engaged the audience throughout the presentations. The diverse presentations showcased the impressive capabilities of primary-aged students in tackling complex ocean issues, demonstrating their knowledge and ability to communicate effectively.

In the afternoon, students participated in two workshops of their choice, further enhancing their understanding of ocean-related topics. These workshops were led by remarkable local organizations that volunteered their time and expertise. Topics included climate resilience in corals, seagrass biodiversity, and turtle monitoring, allowing students to delve deeper into areas of interest.

Mr. Thomas opened the conference, setting a positive tone for the day. There was a performance of an original song “Ocean Lament” by Year 8 students, the lyrics were written by Fardeen, Philip & Pravir, and the music was composed by Mr. Tim. They used recycled tire drums, and the song added a special touch to the event. Guest speakers Mereoni Tavakaturaga from the IUCN Oceania Kiwa Initiative and Merioni Marau from OPOC provided inspiring talks. Mereoni Tavakaturaga highlighted Kiwa’s efforts to protect and restore ocean ecosystems, encouraging students to safeguard marine environments and sea animals. Merioni Marau celebrated each group’s presentations, reinforcing the importance of Ocean Literacy from a young age.

From ISS, three student groups presented their projects. Ryker, a Year 4 student, shared his innovative Shark Tank experience and a prototype for a surfboard that collects trash while surfing. The Mata Ni Ua Ocean Club highlighted the significance of parrotfish for healthy coral reefs, while the Year 6 & 7 Advocacy Group shared their journey addressing marine pollution.

We were fortunate to receive wonderful sponsorship from local organizations to help cover the costs of the day. OPOC kindly sponsored the notebooks, pencil cases, and tote bags. SPC provided the water bottles, and IUCN Oceania sponsored the morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. Additionally, the ISS PTA sponsored a bus to assist with transportation. We are truly grateful to these organizations for their generosity.

We hope this conference becomes an annual event, expanding its reach and impact to inspire more students and communities. The Veivueti Kids Ocean Conference demonstrated the power of education, collaboration, and action in fostering a future generation committed to ocean stewardship.