Recap of the Open House Event During the Science Festival
On October 9th, as part of the Science Festival, 35 junior and senior students specializing in Life and Earth Sciences from Taiarapu Nui High School had the opportunity to participate in the open house organized by Ifremer. From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, they explored the fascinating world of marine research, discovering numerous interactive workshops presented not only by Ifremer, but also by the Directorate of Marine Resources (DRM), Tahiti Marine Products, ASNR, the Tama no te Tairoto association, UPF, and IRD.
The program featured hands-on and enriching experiences: students handled rock oysters, sea cucumbers, and shrimp, and performed their own radioactivity measurements. Each workshop allowed them to explore essential topics related to the preservation and sustainable use of marine resources.
Varied Workshops for All Audiences
- Monitoring coral spawning and discovering the "Connected by the Reef" project
- Introduction to careers supporting science
- Getting started with environmental DNA
- Discovering the history of aquaculture in French Polynesia: pearl farming, paraha peue, shrimp farming, and livestock monitoring
- Restorative aquaculture: challenges and innovations
- What is aquaculture?
- Measuring environmental radioactivity
- Presenting new aquaculture species: macroalgae and rock oysters
- The sea cucumber sector in French Polynesia
- Integrated multi-trophic aquaculture
All these workshops, both fun and educational, sparked great interest among the students. They were able to engage with passionate experts and gain a deeper understanding of the scientific and environmental stakes of the sea and its resources.
Spotlight on Event Partners
- Ifremer :This is a French research institute entirely dedicated to ocean knowledge. Through its scientific and technological research, innovations, and expertise, Ifremer helps protect and restore the ocean, sustainably manage marine resources and environments, and share marine data and information. Ifremer is involved in scientific initiatives and programs at national, European, and international levels.
- DRM : The Directorate of Marine Resources manages and protects marine resources in French Polynesia. It ensures their responsible exploitation, maritime safety, and educates younger generations about preserving the marine environment.
- ASNR :The Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority controls civilian nuclear activities in France on behalf of the State. It also undertakes research, expertise, training, and public information missions in the fields of nuclear safety and radiation protection.
- IRD :The Research Institute for Development has been actively involved in research development in French Polynesia since 1963. It focuses on studying the vulnerability of island ecosystems and related health issues, working in partnership with various local organizations.
At the end of the visit, our students left not only inspired but also with a deeper understanding of the importance of studying Life and Earth Sciences. This experience broadened their horizons and gave them insight into new career opportunities, especially in the fields of marine resource management and conservation.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all organizers and contributors for making this day full of discoveries and exchanges possible, under the bright sun of Tahiti.
