Not only does the Centre use the exhibits within its four walls to inspire and educate learners, but learning activities also take place in the field, such as at Dalebrook Beach. In addition to its school visits, the Centre also holds outreach events and long-term after-school programmes – all in the name of spreading ocean awareness.
“Most of our target audience do not have much experience with the sea and the life within, and don’t even realise that there are animals living on the rocky shore,” says Clova Mabin from the SOSF Shark Education Centre “There’s also a great fear of sharks and very little understanding of the threats that sharks and all ocean life faces. That’s why we are passionate about what we do, especially our longer-term programmes.”
Healthy Ocean, Healthy World
Scottish-born Clova moved to SA in 2005 to work with sharks and completed her MSc in Conservation Biology at UCT and a PhD in Zoology at the University of Stellenbosch. She joined the SOSF Shark Education Centre in 2019 as the Centre Director, commenting “I have always been interested in giving back to the environment, teaching and science communication – so environmental education, especially one in the marine field, is a dream job.”
Hands-On Exploration
