Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Blue Lagoon Island remains dedicated to educational and sustainability endeavors, teaming up with Iowa State University, The Bahamas’ First Step Academy, and The Bahamas Environmental Stewards Scholars (BESS) program.
In a recent collaboration, 11 students from Iowa State University, predominantly specializing in Events and Hospitality, embarked on an enlightening educational venture at Blue Lagoon Island, marking a continuation of their ongoing partnership. Under the guidance of Te-Shalla Clarke, Education and Sustainability Officer at Blue Lagoon Island, the students engaged in dynamic programs involving dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays, aimed at fostering a deeper comprehension of marine life and ecosystems. Furthermore, they partook in team-building activities and discussions underscoring the pivotal role of sustainability within the tourism sector.
“Our enduring partnership with Iowa State University, which began in 2013, underscores our shared commitment to environmental education and conservation,” Clarke remarked. “These initiatives not only enrich the educational experience of participating students but also reinforce the importance of responsible tourism practices.”
John Kramer, a faculty member within the Hospitality Department at Iowa State University and the organizer of the field trip, underscored the trip’s wider significance.: “We aim to expose students to diverse cultures and industries, preparing them for global experiences. We want them to recognize the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of tourism and hospitality.”
The collaboration extended well beyond the field trip as students took part in a beach cleanup at Jaw’s Beach in west Nassau, where they diligently collected over 600 pieces of trash, amounting to over 175 pounds. This hands-on endeavor served to underscore the direct impact of human activities on coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the imperative of environmental stewardship.
In addition, Blue Lagoon Island has embraced virtual learning to broaden its educational outreach to First Step Academy, a primary school in The Bahamas. In a recent session hosted by Te-Shalla Clarke, a marine education and conservation class was conducted virtually. Through platforms like Zoom, students connected with trainer Keva Gifford, who imparted knowledge about dolphins and sea lions. These virtual classes provide students with invaluable exposure to marine education and conservation, bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application.
Moreover, Blue Lagoon Island’s partnership with the BESS program, facilitated by The Bahamas Reef Environmental Educational Foundation (BREEF) and The Cape Eleuthera Island School, offers immersive learning experiences for aspiring environmental stewards such as Bahamian Chris Clarke, a high school senior from Loganville, Georgia. Throughout his two-week internship, Clarke gained insights into various facets of environmental stewardship, including water quality assessment, animal husbandry practices, and fish preparation. Additionally, he attained StarGuard Elite lifeguard certification while simultaneously educating guests about marine species.
“These initiatives are instrumental in cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders. By nurturing a sense of stewardship and instilling a passion for conservation, we aim to empower students to become agents of positive change,” added Te-Shalla Clarke.
Blue Lagoon Island remains unwavering in its dedication to education and sustainability. It persists in forging partnerships with educational institutions and organizations aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and advancing conservation endeavors.
Saturday, April 27, 2024
