|
OUR MARINE ENVIRONMENT IS SUFFERING
The western Indian Ocean hosts some of the world’s most precious
habitats and species. Coral reefs, mangrove forests and seagrass
beds, teeming with life, provide vital natural resources for the
human inhabitants of the region. Yet, with coastal populations
rapidly growing unchecked, human activities such as over-fishing and
coastal development are damaging these previously pristine resources
and may ultimately lead to their destruction. In addition, the
impacts of climate change have the potential to cause devastating
effects on fragile marine ecosystems, having already destroyed 80%
of coral reefs in parts of the region. |
|
THE ACADEMY
A training academy in Mauritius will be created to service the
region, providing the knowledge and skills that are so urgently
required. The academy, due to open in 2008, shall offer a range of
internationally-accredited courses. These will enable the future
managers of fisheries, marine parks and tourism to protect the
marine environment from the impacts of human activity and
understand the implications of climate change. Participants from
the region will also benefit from subsidized course fees and
scholarships. |