Eligibility of Applicants 

Participation is open to all citizens of West Africa, particularly graduates, post graduates and undergraduates, mid-level officers in marine related institutions, staff of relevant NGOs, policy makers within Ministries and Departments, IOI Alumni and any interested members of the public. 

• Understand the marine environment in terms of physical, chemical and biological aspects and the interconnectedness of these components;
• Emphasise the ocean literacy principles and the need for understanding the ocean as the common heritage of mankind;
• Identify and prioritise marine governance issues, trends and future challenges at national, regional and global level;
• Understand the role of the ocean in maritime economies, fisheries, marine technology, security and sovereignty, and recreation.