Call for Applications: Fully-funded Training Workshop on Ocean Sustainability Co-Design (workshop will take place from 11-15 August 2025 at SANBI, Cape Town, South Africa)
The WIOMSA-SCALABLE, in partnership with leading regional and international organizations, invites applications for a dynamic, interactive 5-day training workshop focused on co-designing solutions for ocean sustainability. This workshop will take place from 11-15 August 2025 at SANBI, Cape Town, South Africa. The application deadline is 30 May 2025.
About the Workshop
Ocean sustainability is a pressing global challenge, particularly in regions such as the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). The region is rich in biodiversity and home to vibrant coastal communities, but faces significant environmental and socio-economic challenges, including habitat degradation, overfishing, and the impacts of climate change. Addressing these challenges demands inclusive, participatory approaches that integrate diverse perspectives and local knowledge.
This training workshop is designed to equip participants with the tools, concepts, and real-world skills necessary to apply co-design approaches for more sustainable and inclusive marine and coastal management. Through a series of expert-led sessions, case studies, peer learning, and a field trip, participants will gain hands-on experience in collaboratively developing sustainable solutions.
The training will address key topics such as:
- Overcoming common barriers to participatory processes
- Principles of systems thinking, transdisciplinary approaches, and co-management
- The value of co-design in developing locally relevant solutions
- Methods for applying co-design tools in real-life scenarios
- Facilitating truly inclusive processes
- Balancing power among diverse stakeholders and integrating different knowledge systems
- Communicating effectively with diverse audiences
- Building long-term sustainability and societal impact into project plans
Who Should Apply?
This workshop is intended for individuals from the WIO region who are passionate about ocean and coastal sustainability and eager to adopt co-design practices. Ideal candidates should have relevant experience in marine/coastal initiatives and be ready to apply co-design methods in practice.
The following groups are strongly encouraged to apply:
- Community representatives and local leaders from coastal areas
- Marine and coastal scientists (both natural and social sciences)
- Policy-makers, marine spatial planners, and government officials
- NGO program managers and field officers
- Science-policy brokers and facilitators
- Early-career professionals committed to marine and coastal work
The course is designed for a small group of 15-20 participants to foster intensive collaboration and maximize learning outcomes. Experience or a demonstrated interest in co-design, participatory processes, or co-management is required.
Participant Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Full or partial sponsorship for travel, accommodation, meals, and training materials
- Practical tools and skills that can be immediately applied to participants’ work
- Networking opportunities with regional and international experts
- The chance to bring their own case studies to the workshop and work collaboratively on real-world projects
Selection Criteria
Participants will be selected based on the following criteria:
- Professional Relevance or Experience: Applicants should be currently involved in marine and coastal sectors in the WIO region, with a focus on community engagement, policy development, conservation, or resource management. Early-career professionals are encouraged to apply, especially those in strategic roles or those with promising career trajectories.
- Commitment to Co-design: Applicants must clearly explain how co-design methodologies will be applied in their current or upcoming projects. Those who have completed the “Co-design for the Ocean Decade” course, or have equivalent experience, are especially encouraged to apply.
- Potential for Multiplier Effect: Candidates should demonstrate their ability and intention to share knowledge and tools gained during the workshop with peers, organizations, or networks. Local leaders, supervisors, and those in positions to influence organizational practices or policies are encouraged to apply.
- Contribution to the Workshop: Applicants should be willing to bring a concrete case study or active project to develop further during group exercises. Active participation in discussions, group work, and networking is expected.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required, as the training will be conducted in English, including group discussions and written activities.
- Availability and Commitment: Participants must be able to attend the full 5-day in-person training.
How to Apply
Interested individuals should complete the online application form by 30 May 2025. Those employed by institutions must provide a signed letter of support from their organization.
Organizers
The training workshop is hosted by:
- WIOMSA-SCALABLE
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- International Ocean Institute of Southern Africa & Germany (IOI)
- Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT)
- IOC-UNESCO
The workshop benefits from the expertise of international specialists in co-design, science-policy-society engagement, and ocean sustainability.
For more information or inquiries, please contact: [email protected] or see full call for applications here
This workshop presents a unique opportunity for professionals in the ocean and coastal sustainability sectors to gain crucial skills, collaborate with a diverse group of experts, and develop actionable solutions for a sustainable ocean future.
