This project will give food grants to local students interested in learning about sea turtle conservation and gaining field experience but do not have the economic means to support themselves while away from home. By aiding students with meals and housing, we empower the younger generations of conservationists, increase awareness, and ensure higher participation of local members in the protection of their biodiversity.
A recent analysis of the communities where we work indicated a low level of participation of local people in conservation activities. The lack of awareness of the environmental problems and conservation projects hinders the conservation efforts because locals don't see themselves as part of the problem.
By involving the young generations in our sea turtle conservation program, we increase their awareness of the local environmental conflicts and provide them with tools to solve them. The food grants will help as incentives for interested students, helping them focus on learning without worrying about the expenses.
The project will empower and build the capacity of 20 local students of the three communities where we work to turn them into beacons for conservation. It will also help change the current mindset towards one where biodiversity conservation is part of the economic development of coastal communities.
