The IOI Ocean Academy’s global outreach in Ocean Literacy is growing even more in 2026!

The IOI Ocean Academy is set to significantly expand its global outreach this year with the addition of nine new country nodes, bringing the total to 27, with more expected to join throughout the year.

The new nodes are in Bangladesh, Colombia, Chile, India (Odisha), Lebanon, Liberia, Mozambique, The Gambia, and the Upper Adriatic region (Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia). These nodes will offer free online courses on Ocean Literacy in Bangla, Spanish, Odia, Arabic, French, Koloqua, Portuguese, Wolof, Italian, and Croatian and English.

Many of these modules are already open for Registrations. Visit the IOI Ocean Academy main page for more information and to register. 

“Bangladesh is one of the most climate-vulnerable maritime nations in the world, where millions of livelihoods depend on the Bay of Bengal. The country’s sustainable development is closely tied to the health of its marine and coastal ecosystems.

Although Bengali is the seventh most spoken language globally, there remains a significant lack of accessible educational resources on ocean science and marine conservation in Bengali. This gap limits the ability of youth, coastal communities, and civil society to fully engage in informed decision-making and responsible stewardship of marine resources.

Inspired by the vision of the IOI, the IOI Ocean Academy Bangladesh has launched to promote ocean literacy in the Bengali language. The Academy aims to empower youth, researchers, and community stakeholders with scientific knowledge and practical awareness necessary to protect Bangladesh’s Blue Economy and ensure a sustainable future for its maritime zones.”

Mostafa MONWAR, Director IOI Ocean Academy Bangladesh (Bangla language) 

“The commitment to establish the IOI Academy in Colombia stems from the need to contribute to ocean governance, so crucial today given the various situations rapidly altering marine life. Governments and the current generation of children, women, and men have a responsibility to work to save our seas. Thanks to the IOI, starting with a training program in 2002, that commitment was instilled in me and remains a part of my life. I invite my fellow Colombians to work every day for our bioceanic Colombia”

Willian PEDROZA, Director IOI Ocean Academy Colombia (Spanish Language)

“Since I was a small kid, I remember being told that Chile looks to the ocean; in fact, one of our most iconic cultural icons, the Moai in Easter Island (Rapa Nui), are forever silently facing the waves. In my view, while geographically we are a coastal country, most of us do not really 'see' the ocean: its magnificent flora and fauna; the way in which its ecosystems work; and its vital role in our life. This means that we also do not really understand how to look after it, which is why I consider the IOI Ocean Academy so important. Join me and other likeminded people around the world in this voyage of ocean literacy; together we can make a difference.”

 Nicolás OJEDA, Director IOI Ocean Academy Chile (Spanish Language)

“My NGO - Guardians of the Blue - has been working in Lebanon for the past 5 years on increasing ocean literacy locally through various projects, mainly at the local level in Byblos. We have been following the work of IOI for quite some time, and have had the chance to collaborate with IOI on various events through our involvement with the Early Career Ocean Professionals Programme. It was quite natural for us to join the IOI Ocean Academy, and we are very much looking forward to expanding our efforts to make ocean literacy more accessible in Lebanon through this collaboration.”

Laura KHATIB LAKISS, Director, IOI Ocean Academy Lebanon 

(Arabic and French language)

“The majority of Liberia’s land area lies along the Atlantic Ocean’s coast, significantly influencing its economic status. This coastal location facilitates various activities, including fishing as a primary livelihood and the importation and exportation of commercial goods, which are crucial to the nation’s economy. However, the ocean’s impact extends beyond economic considerations. I have personally witnessed the erosion of properties and streets along the coast, exacerbating poverty and displacing communities. Despite these challenges, many individuals lack a comprehensive understanding of the ocean’s vital role in our survival and the potential consequences of inadequate governance. While Liberia has established government agencies dedicated to disseminating information about the ocean’s significance, I am motivated to provide further educational resources to coastal residents and students. My objective is to promote harmonious coexistence with the ocean and advocate for its recognition as an asset rather than merely a body of saltwater.”

Diallo FLOMO, Director IOI Ocean Academy Liberia (Koloqua language)

“I joined the IOI Ocean Academy because I am passionate about the ocean. After completing the IOI Ocean Governance training course in South Africa, I strongly identified with the Institute’s mission and vision. Through the IOI Ocean Academy, I aim to use education as a tool for positive change in Mozambique by strengthening ocean literacy, supporting teachers, and promoting sustainability through the local curriculum. My goal is also to help build the next generation of teachers and students who will become responsible ocean leaders along the Mozambican coast.”

Ivaldo FUMO, Director IOI Ocean Academy, Mozambique 

(Portuguese language)

“My decision to join the IOI Ocean Academy was inspired by my participation in the online winter school offered by the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) in partnership with IOI, as well as my academic journey at the World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden, which deepened my interest in ocean governance and sustainable development.”

Ebrima WEATHEROL 

Director, IOI Ocean Academy, THE GAMBIA

(Wolof language) 

"Driven by both professional commitment and personal passion, my heart lies with the “Health of the Ocean.” As an avid sailor, I experience firsthand the beauty, fragility, and systemic importance of marine ecosystems. This unique combination of pedagogical expertise, sustainability practice, advanced ocean studies, and lived maritime experience, inspires me to offer IOI Ocean Academy courses. My aim is to empower decision-makers, professionals, ocean stakeholders and the public with the knowledge, governance tools, and collaborative mindset needed to advance a truly sustainable Blue Economy."

Arndt BUBENZER, Director IOI Ocean Academy Upper Adriatic

(Italian, Croatian or English Language)