Over the weekend at Bokanbotin Island, a new marine science education program offered students a rare opportunity to engage directly with ocean science in a hands-on, field-based setting. In a country completely surrounded by the largest ocean in the world, the program highlighted both the natural advantage of place and the existing gap in formal marine science education at the high school level.
The initiative was made possible through a collaboration between Pacific Island Tuna Provisions (PITP), Bokanbotin Resort, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands Public School System.
It brought together students, scientists, and community members for an immersive learning experience focused on coral reef ecosystems, ocean monitoring, and field-based research methods.
While students initially approached the program with some hesitation, engagement quickly grew as they interacted with scientific tools and equipment.
Participants worked together to interpret ocean data, asked questions, and tested ideas before applying their learning directly in the field.
Sessions transitioned naturally from laptop-based reef mapping and monitoring exercises to in-water experiences, where students observed coral species within the marine protected area and connected scientific concepts to their immediate environment.
The program also reflects a broader effort to expand awareness of career pathways and educational opportunities related to marine science in the Marshall Islands. By providing direct exposure to applied science, the initiative aims to encourage students to consider future roles in ocean management, conservation, and research.
The Bokanbotin program is intended to be the first of a series of recurring marine science camps, creating a consistent platform for experiential learning and capacity building for young people across the country.
In addition to this initiative, the PITP Board recently approved two other community-focused sustainability projects: A youth-led seaweed farming program and a Community Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) value-add initiative.
Together, these projects are designed to support education, strengthen local food systems, and create new economic opportunities at the community level.
Pacific Island Tuna Provisions is a sustainability-driven tuna company jointly established by the Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority and The Nature Conservancy. PITP’s mission is to reduce illegal, unregulated, and underreported (IUU) fishing, reduce bycatch and support community-based conservation. PITP is committed to ensuring that Pacific nations and communities benefit from the economic value derived from tuna resources; while maintaining high standards of environmental stewardship, transparency, and traceability.
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