Training Tomorrow’s Oceanographers
SEAmester’s success is evident in the academic achievements of its participants. A total of 254 students from over 26 institutes and universities have participated in the program, gaining comprehensive knowledge in oceanography, marine biology, atmospheric forecasting and navigation. The curriculum, developed in collaboration with leading marine scientists and lecturers across South Africa, ensures a balance between theoretical concepts and practical training of skills. SEAmester participants have contributed to several news publications, presenting their findings at national and international (SANAP 2023, IUGG 2023, @SEAnetwork 2022, VC award Ocean Womxn) conferences and workshops.
The program’s emphasis on research skills and scientific inquiry has empowered students to continue to make meaningful contributions to the field of marine science. Graduates of SEAmester have gone on to pursue advanced degrees and have secured positions in reputable research institutions, environmental organizations, and marine industries. The alumni network continues to grow, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between the cohort of SEAmester students. SEAmester’s success is further exemplified by the growing number of partnerships with academic institutions. Collaborative research projects, joint degree programs, and faculty exchanges have strengthened ties between SEAmester and leading universities in South Africa. International Collaborations: SEAmester is actively exploring partnerships with renowned international institutions to enhance the global reach of its educational offerings. Collaborative research projects and student exchanges will further enrich the program’s diversity and perspective. (Above SEAmester 2023)
As the field of ocean science evolves, SEAmester is committed to incorporating emerging disciplines such as marine robotics, climate science, and biotechnology into its curriculum. This ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future direction and foci of marine sciences. Recognizing the importance of accessibility, SEAmester continues to develop and teach digital learning/mapping/visual platforms to complement its on-board training.
“SEAmester gave me hope… hope that if you look, opportunities will unfold.” – Ntando.
Below examples of the many articles and presentations coming out of the programme…
- SEAMESTER South Africa’s First class afloat
- Overview of SEAmester.
- Return of SEAmester 2022.
- SANAP Midmonth series: Wednesday women – Isabel Ansorge.
- Seagoing students keep abreast of current trends.
- Science for Africa Quest – South Africa’s University afloat.
- Somewhere Beyond the Sea: SEAmester 2019
- Isabelle Ansorge during 6th SANAP Symposium
- UJ Scientists explore the ocean on the RV/SA Agulhas II for SEAmester 2019.
- SAASTA: ACEP/Phuhlisa students join SEAmester ‘Class Afloat’ SA Agulhas II.
- How to teach “50 shades of Blue” – SEAmester South Africa’s Floating University.
- ASSAF: SEAmester South Africa’s University Afloat
- APECSSA Lecture Series: Strengthening Ocean Science at the tip of Africa – SEAmester, South Africa’s Floating University by Tahlia Henry
- WOMEN IN SCIENCE: An oceanographer’s mission to create awareness of the oceans.
- All-Atlantic Floating University Network.
- Students embark on 10-day marine science voyage.
- Sentinel News: Classroom on the sea.
- 11th Session of the CLIVAR/CliC/SCAR Southern Ocean Region Panel: SEAmester-South Africa’s Class Afloat.
A report which is a poll of all 6 SEAmester student cohorts on the importance of their SEAmester experience in shaping their studies, career trajectory etc. will be published soon.
IMAGES available on ALSA archive
Text by Isabelle Ansorge.
