By Kate Robey | Charitable Trust Operations Manager
Dear Supporters,
Recently we have shared with you 2 stories about our latest National Scholars in Fiji. Today we would like to tell you a little bit more about the National Scholarship Program (NSP) in Fiji and how it is growing.
Since 2013, GVI Fiji has provided opportunities to local candidates to join the Marine Conservation Expedition with the aim to further inspire and equip locals with the tools and skills required to reach their full potential in the fields of Marine Science and Conservation. Capacity building is a key focus of GVI’s long- term objectives and the National Scholar Program allows students to gain the relevant training and practical field experience that is otherwise rarely available.
In June 2015 GVI Fiji partnered with the University of the South Pacific (USP), to give high-performing marine science undergraduates the opportunity to join the Marine Research Program for 4 to 12 weeks on Caqalai Island, in the Lomaiviti group.
That July, Caqalai received its first NSP candidate through USP and in January 2016 a further two NSP candidates joined the programme, with more scholars expected to join the program throughout 2016.
GVI Fiji provides NSP candidates with training in three core areas: SCUBADiving, Survey/ Science Training and Community Outreach. Candidates gain hard to find field experience, particularly in an underwater environment, as well as the chance to put theory into practice and develop critical employability skills. As local marine scientists, the scholars are the future custodians of the reef and the skills gained on the program help build stronger environmental leaders, as well as enabling candidates to form a global network with likeminded participants from all over the world.
GVI Fiji is rewarded with additional local expertise within its Marine Research Program and the opportunity to identify future potential staff. The NSP also has the potential to broaden its reach outside of Fiji as GVI can accept applicants from all 12 of USP’s member countries. Scholars from neighboring Pacific countries can then take the knowledge and skills gained with GVI back to their home nation, with the hope of having a positive influence on regional marine conservation efforts.
As the NSP gains momentum, GVI Fiji is keen to welcome the next USP graduates to Caqalai and hope to develop the scheme by opening applications to Master’s degree students in the near future.
GVI Fiji is committed to training local participants in marine monitoring techniques,environmental education and climate adaptation methodology on Caqalai Island and GVI Fiji look forward to strengthening the partnership with the University of the South Pacific and further developing the National Scholarship Program to equip candidates with the skills needed to become future conservation leaders within their home country and on the international environmental stage.
Thank you for your generous support!
With Gratitude,
GVI FIJI
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By Kate Robey | Charitable Trust Operations Manager
By Kate Robey | Charitable Trust Operations Manager
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