SSI Leads Ocean Education for the Maldives' Next Generation
ecology
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At SSI, we believe that diving is more than a sport — it is a pathway to understanding, protecting, and preserving our oceans. That belief came to life in August when SSI partnered with Sub Oceanic Maldives and Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa to bring ocean education directly to the students of Ohluvelifushi School.
The event followed SSI's recent video production at Le Méridien Maldives, where our team filmed new global training materials set against the island's thriving reefs. But this project was not just about capturing stunning visuals for diver education.
We wanted to create a legacy of learning and conservation that extends beyond the classroom and into the hearts of the next generation.
But what does inspiring the next generation really look like? For the students of Ohluvelifushi School, it meant an unforgettable day of ocean discovery — where conservation turned from an idea into something they could see, touch, and believe in.
Ocean Education That Inspires Action
During the community outreach, students were introduced to the wonders of the ocean through a lively and interactive ocean education session led by Cesar Briliandi, Marine Biologist at Le Méridien Maldives and Sub Oceanic Maldives.
The children learned how to tell the difference between hawksbill and green sea turtles, discovered the importance of seagrass meadows, and gained a deeper understanding of why protecting these endangered species matters for the health of the entire marine ecosystem.
The Session Was Far From a Simple Lecture
With games, quizzes, and hands-on activities, students were encouraged to think critically about how the ocean connects to their own lives and futures. Their enthusiasm was contagious—proof that education is one of the most powerful tools for conservation.
As Mr. Ibrahim, Principal of Ohluvelifushi School, shared:
"Our students were deeply inspired by the visit. They asked questions, learned directly from experts, and now see the ocean as part of their own future."
SSI's Commitment to Education that Drives Conservation
At SSI, we know that true conservation starts with knowledge. That is why education has always been at the heart of our philosophy, and why we continue to invest in innovative learning tools, ocean education initiatives, and community initiatives.
From entry-level courses to professional certifications, SSI offers one of the broadest ranges of digital training materials in the industry, designed to make diving accessible and engaging for every student.
But we do not stop there. Our Ecology programs go beyond skills training to focus on the science of the ocean itself.
Get Involved: Discover 10 Ways to Become an Eco Diver Today
SSI Ecology Programs include:
- Shark Ecology – Understand the role of sharks in marine ecosystems and why they need our protection.
- Sea Turtle Ecology – Dive deeper into the lives of hawksbill, green, and other turtle species, and how divers can help safeguard them.
- Coral Identification – Learn to identify coral species and recognize the threats reefs face around the globe.
- Manta & Ray Ecology – Explore the fascinating lives of rays and mantas, from feeding behaviors to migratory patterns.
- Marine Ecology – A comprehensive overview of ocean ecosystems and the connections between species.
- Fish Identification – Learn how to identify fish species worldwide to enhance your dives.
- Marine Mammal Ecology – Dive into the world of whales, dolphins, and seals to learn what makes them unique and how to protect them.
- Marine Invertebrate Ecology – Unlock the mysterious world of marine invertebrates and discover fascinating facts about these unique animals.
- Nudibranch Ecology – Explore these beautiful, mysterious creatures up close and personal.
With more ecology programs than any other training agency, SSI gives divers the opportunity to expand their knowledge, enrich their dive experiences, and become ambassadors for the ocean wherever they dive.
SSI's Ecology Programs connect divers with the ocean's most iconic species — from turtles and sharks to corals and nudibranchs.
Blue Oceans: Free Training for Every Diver
In addition to our professional training and ecology specialties, SSI is proud to offer the Blue Oceans program — a free digital ocean education course that empowers divers and non-divers alike to make sustainable choices that protect our planet.
The program covers everything from proper buoyancy and respectful wildlife interaction to tips on reducing plastic use and supporting local conservation efforts.
Whether you are an experienced diving instructor or just earning your diving license, Blue Oceans provides the foundation for becoming an environmentally responsible diver.
By weaving Blue Oceans principles into every dive and community initiative, SSI is helping build a global culture of care and responsibility — one person, one decision, and one dive at a time.
Want to learn about Marine Protected Areas? Take a look at: 6 of the Largest Marine Protected Areas in the World.
Partnering with Sub Oceanic Maldives
This initiative would not have been possible without Sub Oceanic Maldives, an SSI Training Center located atLe Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. Known for its professionalism and passion, Sub Oceanic not only provides world-class dive experiences for resort guests but also champions marine conservation and ocean education in the local community.
As Florian Gansl, Head of Operations at Sub Oceanic Maldives, shared:
"Our mission is not only to introduce guests to the wonders beneath the surface, but also to empower the next generation with knowledge and passion for the ocean. Watching the students' enthusiasm reaffirmed that education is the most powerful tool for conservation."
It is a mission that aligns seamlessly with SSI's vision for the future of diving and ocean stewardship.
What Comes Next: Inspiring Lifelong Ocean Advocates
The day at Ohluvelifushi School was just the beginning. In the coming months, SSI's partner brand, Mares, will donate snorkeling sets to the school, giving students the opportunity to experience the magic of the underwater world firsthand.
A guided excursion to Le Méridien's house reef and Marine Conservation Hub will allow them to apply their new knowledge in the ocean itself — a decisive step toward inspiring lifelong ocean advocates.
Looking further ahead, SSI, Sub Oceanic, and Le Méridien Maldives plan to expand this program with biodiversity workshops, hands-on conservation projects, and even entry-level scuba diving courses for local students. All of which builds on the ocean education they have already begun.
Together, we are helping to shape the Maldives' next wave of ocean advocates.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The success of this initiative reinforces a truth we have always known at SSI: diving is more than a sport — it is a platform for transformation. Every course, every dive, and every community project has the power to advance ocean education, inspire action, and safeguard our oceans for generations to come.
As SSI CEO Guido Wätzig put it:
"By engaging with local communities, we share a passion that strengthens not just the present, but the future of our oceans. We are honored to work alongside Le Méridien Maldives and Sub Oceanic Maldives in creating these meaningful opportunities."
Through projects like this, SSI continues to set the standard for dive education — providing the world's most comprehensive training, expanding awareness through our Ecology programs, and inspiring sustainable choices through Blue Oceans.
Because when divers are educated, they become protectors. And when communities are inspired, they become guardians.
Get Involved
Ocean education matters most when it inspires action. Here is how you can be part of the change:
Together, we can continue to inspire the next generation.