The “Blue Economy and Ocean Governance” course is designed to enhance understanding of the ocean’s vital role in sustainable development and economic transformation. Anchored within the framework of Ocean Literacy, this module explores how nations can harness ocean resources responsibly while safeguarding marine ecosystems. Through a blend of scientific insights, policy perspectives, and practical case studies, participants will gain knowledge of global, regional and national ocean governance instruments, innovative Blue Economy sectors, and emerging management tools such as Marine Spatial Planning and Blue Accounting. The course ultimately empowers participants to translate ocean knowledge into informed actions that promote sustainability, equity, and resilience in coastal and marine environments.

• Understand and explain the foundational concepts of Ocean Literacy, the Blue Economy, and Ocean Governance, and how these interlink with sustainable development and climate resilience.
• Identify and analyse global, regional, and national policy frameworks—including UNCLOS, the UN Ocean Decade, and the African Blue Economy Strategy—guiding the sustainable use and protection of marine resources.
• Evaluate the economic, social, and ecological dimensions of key Blue Economy sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, marine transport, tourism, and renewable ocean energy, emphasising sustainability and innovation.
• Apply governance tools and management approaches, such as Marine Spatial Planning (MSP), Blue Accounting, and ecosystem-based management, in addressing ocean-use conflicts and promoting responsible ocean stewardship.
• Develop actionable strategies or community-level plans that integrate environmental sustainability, economic opportunity, and social inclusion into the Blue Economy framework for coastal and marine development.

• Explain the concepts of ocean literacy, Blue Economy, and ocean governance.
• Identify key global, regional, and national frameworks shaping ocean management.
• Evaluate economic sectors driving the Blue Economy and their sustainability challenges.
• Apply marine policy tools such as MSP, Blue Accounting, and financing mechanisms.
• Develop practical action plans linking ocean health to national development goals.