Early Career Ocean Professionals - Senegal

In July, ECOP Senegal, in collaboration with Malizia Explorer, led the country’s first-ever oceanographic training mission. Nine young Senegalese researchers from four universities, two ministries, and national research centers joined the expedition to gain hands-on experience in Ocean science. During the mission, participants conducted plankton sampling and hydroacoustic surveys, contributing critical data to identify biodiversity hotspots and support the management of Senegal’s Marine Protected Areas, especially as offshore oil activities expand. This initiative was aimed to build scientific skills and empower the next generation of Senegalese Ocean leaders but also to support advances in the country’s marine conservation goals under the global 30x30 initiative. The mission was supported by the Ministry of Environment of Senegal, through the Direction of Marine Protected Areas, and GEOMAR.