By Amirul Salam Hasan, Corporate Communications Office

For a child, the sea may begin with a wave, a sandy beach, or a glimpse of marine life. But through a recent special initiative, that first sense of wonder can become something more – an understanding of the ocean, its importance, and the responsibility to protect it.

At the heart of this effort is Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), which was entrusted with serving as the national coordinator for this initiative, called Blue School Malaysia.

With its strengths in marine science, biodiversity, fisheries, oceanography, and conservation, UMT is well positioned to bring the university’s expertise closer to schools, teachers, students, and communities.

Blue School Malaysia is part of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO-IOC) Blue School Global Network. The global platform encourages schools to use the ocean as a learning medium across multiple disciplines.

The programme was established to play a role in nurturing ocean literacy among young people so that they not only know about the ocean but also understand its value and are prepared to protect it from marine pollution, coastal erosion, biodiversity loss, and climate change.

Through Blue School, students can learn about plastic pollution through field projects, discover the importance of mangrove forests, understand marine biodiversity, explore sea turtle conservation efforts, or witness first-hand the impacts of climate change on ecosystems.

“The strength of Blue School lies in authentic learning experiences that enable students to build a closer connection with the ocean,” said Dr Afiq Durrani Mohd Fahmi, Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Marine Science and Environment (FSSM), who serves as a member of the UNESCO-IOC Ocean Literacy Expert Group.

“Blue School gives students the opportunity to learn with nature, not merely about nature,” he added. “When students venture into the field, observe coastal ecosystems, and discover marine biodiversity, they gain more than knowledge and develop a sense of responsibility towards the environment.”

For Muhammad Haris Mikhail Mansor of Sekolah Kebangsaan Durian Mas 1, Terengganu, taking part in Blue School opened up a new perspective on the marine world.

“The programme was very enjoyable because we were able to learn directly about marine life and the environment,” he said. “The experience helped me better understand why pollution must be reduced and the ocean protected, so that its treasures can be enjoyed by future generations.”

“Blue School Malaysia carries the message that major change can begin in a classroom, with a student’s curiosity, a teacher who encourages them to ask questions, and the experience of getting closer to nature,” Dr Afiq Durrani said.