Students will embark on a 7-day ocean conservation journey to Fenfushi Island in the Maldives, where they will engage in hands-on learning and meaningful environmental projects. Upon arrival at Male International Airport, they will travel by boat to South Ari Atoll and begin their exploration of Fenfushi through activities like an island bioblitz, microplastics studies, and coral restoration projects. Students will investigate the marine food chain, focusing on plankton’s essential role in sustaining ocean life, and participate in whale shark observation. They will also connect with the local community by cooking traditional Maldivian dishes, engaging in peer-learning with Fenfushi school students, and contributing to beach cleanups and systems analysis to understand the impact of ocean debris.

Throughout the trip, students will apply their learning in the field, visiting uninhabited islands to study mangrove ecosystems and assess the effects of ocean-source debris. They will snorkel over vibrant reefs, compare healthy reef systems to restoration sites, and contribute to citizen science activities. The itinerary emphasizes collaboration, cultural exchange, and environmental stewardship, allowing students to make a tangible impact on the local ecosystem and community. With a focus on sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this experience fosters a deeper understanding of marine conservation and global interconnectedness.