For years, UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), and the Government of South Africa have worked hand-in-hand to advance ocean science, education, and sustainable development across the continent. From regional capacity-building initiatives to high-level policy dialogues, this partnership has consistently championed Africa’s leadership in marine research and governance.

This enduring relationship was once again brought to life through SEAmester VIII, South Africa’s flagship “floating classroom” programme. Hosted aboard the S.A. Agulhas II, a world-class research vessel operated by the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Eighth edition of the SEAmester offers a unique opportunity for students and scientists to learn, collaborate, and conduct research in the open ocean.

With IOCAFRICA’s support, a cohort of African beneficiaries joined this year’s voyage from 17 to 27 June 2025, gaining hands-on experience in marine science while building lasting networks across the continent.

Immersive Learning that Transforms

SEAmester is more than a training programme, it’s a transformative experience that blends academic instruction with real-world application. Participants engage in lectures, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, all while navigating the open ocean aboard a fully equipped research vessel.

For Dortea Hamukoto, a master’s student from the University of Namibia, the voyage was a gateway to discovery.

I got hands-on experience learning to collect and observe zooplankton, including tiny creatures like copepods, using microscopes and scientific tools. I also learnt to test dissolved oxygen in water samples, a completely new and exciting skill for me.

Microscopic observation of zooplankton samples, with identifiable copepods such as Calanoids.

Beyond technical skills, SEAmester fosters personal growth and professional development.

It wasn’t just about learning but also sharing. I strengthened my presentation skills, worked on a group project about chlorophyll A concentrations, and most importantly, I made friends, connections, and memories that will stay with me forever. Thanks to UNESCO’s support, the ocean has opened up to me in ways I will never see the same again.”

Students participating in an art session, engaging in creative expression as part of the programme’s extracurricular activities

Bridging Research and Regional Collaboration

For experienced scientists like Dr. Muthumbi, Senior Lecturer in Marine Biology at the University of Nairobi, SEAmester offered a rare opportunity to engage with deep-sea research in real time and observe the full cycle of marine data collection and analysis.

The sheer size of the vessel, the facilities it has, and the kind of research it can do amazed me. When I first stepped on board, I felt like I was in a hotel, but it was actually a floating classroom. Watching how samples were collected, analyzed, and used in research was invaluable. We were able to do deep-sea research I would never have experienced otherwise.

Dr. Agnes Muthumbi aboard S.A. Agulhas II

She also acknowledged IOCAFRICA’s role in facilitating her participation. “They were very useful in organizing my expedition, supporting me with logistics, and negotiating my position to be able to get onto the vessel.”

Through its continued support for SEAmester and similar initiatives, IOCAFRICA is helping to equip the next generation of African ocean professionals with the skills, networks, and confidence they need to lead.

Students, scientists, anyone interested in marine science, there are many chances out there,” Dr. Muthumbi urged. “Especially with the UN Decade of Ocean Science, I just want to encourage them to look out, apply, and not give up.

SEAmester VIII is a testament to what long-standing partnerships can achieve. It aligns closely with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), which calls for inclusive, innovative, and transformative approaches to ocean knowledge. As the Ocean Decade unfolds, IOCAFRICA remains committed to creating opportunities for African ECOPs, whether on land or at sea. Through initiatives like SEAmester, the organization continues to build capacity, foster collaboration, and inspire the next generation of ocean leaders.

• The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (UNESCO-IOC)
• More on UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA)