NUS College Learning Field Trip to Sisters’ Islands Marine Park

Overview

On 22 February 2025, SeaKeepers Asia facilitated an educational field trip for 22 students from NUS College aboard the MV Legend. As part of their "Making Connections" class (NST2063: Conserving Marine Spaces – It Takes a Village), the students embarked on an immersive learning experience at Singapore’s first Marine Park—the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park. This excursion offered a unique opportunity for students to gain firsthand insights into the intricacies of marine conservation, partnership governance, and community-based stewardship efforts.

SeaKeepers has long been committed to marine education and conservation, and this field trip was another step toward fostering environmental awareness and stewardship among the next generation of conservation leaders. By working closely with academic institutions like NUS College, SeaKeepers continues to support experiential learning programs that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications.

Exploring Singapore’s First Marine Park

During the trip, students had the chance to explore the rich biodiversity that thrives within the Sisters’ Islands Marine Park. The park, established as a protected area, serves as a sanctuary for a variety of marine species, including corals, giant clams, and reef fish. Through guided discussions and observations, students learned about the significance of marine protected areas (MPAs) in sustaining marine ecosystems and mitigating environmental threats such as habitat destruction and climate change.

One of the highlights of the trip was the discussion on the collaborative efforts between government agencies, researchers, and local communities in managing the Marine Park. Experts and conservationists shared their insights into how effective governance frameworks and community engagement strategies play a crucial role in the success of marine conservation initiatives. By understanding these dynamics, students were encouraged to think critically about how different stakeholders contribute to the protection and sustainable management of marine spaces.

A Reflection on Conservation Strategies

Beyond the field trip, students were tasked with reflecting on their experience through a photo reflection assignment, which allowed them to capture key moments and insights gained from the visit. This exercise aimed to reinforce their understanding of marine conservation challenges and inspire them to engage more deeply with environmental issues.

Additionally, students will conduct a comparative analysis between Sisters’ Islands Marine Park and a regional Marine Protected Area (MPA). This analytical approach will help them assess the effectiveness of different conservation strategies and governance models in various environmental and socio-political contexts. By drawing comparisons, they can identify best practices and potential areas for improvement in marine conservation efforts, both locally and regionally.

Strengthening Marine Conservation Through Education

SeaKeepers' involvement in this field trip underscores its ongoing commitment to promoting marine conservation through education and outreach. By providing students with experiential learning opportunities, SeaKeepers fosters a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems and the collaborative efforts required to protect them.

As environmental challenges continue to grow, initiatives like this field trip play a crucial role in cultivating informed and engaged individuals who can contribute to sustainable conservation solutions. Through continued partnerships with academic institutions and marine organizations, SeaKeepers aims to inspire future leaders dedicated to the protection of our oceans.