The Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), in partnership with the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association(WIOMSA), proudly hosted the Western Indian Ocean Certification of Marine Protected Area Professionals(WIO-COMPAS) Event in Seychelles between the 3rd- 8th May 2023.
WIO-COMPAS is a Programme which evaluates Marine Protected Area practitioners and ensures that they meet the highest standards in the Management of Protected Areas. It is a joint initiative of WIOMSA, of which SPGA is a proud member, and the Coastal Resources Center (CRC) at the University of Rhode Island (URI). Throughout the 6-day event, participants underwent training courses, professional development seminars, mentoring and networking, with the aim to better foster greater ability and knowledge for effective Marine Protected Area(MPA) management. A boat and Beach Patrol, a key practical component of the Certification, also took place in the Ste. Anne Marine Park whereby candidates were able to witness first-hand the biophysical and socio-economic context of a Marine Park.
The Certification Event welcomed MPA professionals from the neighbouring Western Indian Ocean nations (South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Reunion Island and Seychelles). The delegation will consist of 8 assessors and 16 participants who have either qualified for Level 1 or Level 2. To note, 2 Seychellois candidates from SPGA participated in the Event, namely Mr. Anto Suzette, Curieuse Marine National Park Manager and Mr. Demien Mougal Assistant Park Officer within the Ste. Anne Marine Park.
