Students drive ocean action at growing Veivueti Kids Ocean Conference

Fiji’s growing movement of young ocean advocates took a major step forward as the International School Suva’s (ISS) Veivueti Kids Ocean Conference expanded to include students from across the country.

Now in its third year, the conference has grown from a one-day programme involving just five schools into a two-day national event, bringing together participants from 14 schools and strengthening youth engagement in ocean conservation and sustainable development.

ISS Ocean coordinator Hannah Nanovu said the expansion reflected a deliberate push to widen access and empower more young people to take part in ocean-focused learning.

“We wanted to cast the net wider and reach more schools,” Ms Nanovu said.

ISS Ocean Coordinator Hannah Nanovu.

Photo: Asenaca Ratu

Students aged between eight and 16 travelled from areas including Beqa, Serua, Sigatoka and Natovi to attend the conference, joining returning schools in what organisers described as a diverse and engaged network of young environmental leaders.

Participating schools included Champs, Divine Healer Christian School, Gospel School, International School Suva, International School Nadi, Kulukulu Public School, Lomary Secondary School, Pacific Nations School, Rukua Raviravi Primary School, St Vincent de Paul Primary School, Suva Methodist School, The Learning Centre and Veiuto Primary School.

Despite initial expectations of 17 schools, the turnout of 14 schools marked significant growth and national representation.

A major milestone this year was the conference’s official endorsement by the United Nations Ocean Decade, a recognition Ms Nanovu said validated the work being carried out by students.

“I’m really excited that we’ve received global recognition and that people can see the work these students are doing,” she said.

The conference blends scientific learning with traditional knowledge, allowing students to explore ocean issues in ways that connect directly to their communities.

Ms Nanovu said empowering youth at an early age was essential to fostering long-term environmental stewardship.

“You will protect what you love,” she said.

Older students also took part in a youth dialogue session centred on the Blue Pacific Strategy for 2050, equipping them with knowledge to take back to their schools and communities.

The event sought to strengthen ocean literacy among young people while encouraging leadership, innovation, and environmental responsibility.

Throughout the two-day programme, which ended today, students presented projects and initiatives addressing marine conservation, biodiversity protection, sustainability, and climate change.

Organisers said the presentations provided a platform for delegates to showcase their work, exchange ideas, and inspire action among their peers.

Participants also visited the ISS Year 6 Marine Habitats Exhibition, where students displayed projects highlighting the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and coastal habitats.

Ms Nanovu said the conference is helping to nurture a new generation of leaders committed to protecting Fiji’s marine environment and advancing the region’s Blue Pacific agenda.

The school acknowledged the support of its key partners and sponsors, including the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, the Pacific Community, WWF-Pacific and the ISS Parent Teacher Association, whose contributions helped make the conference possible.