MSC Foundation Strengthens Partnership with Bahamian Educational Institutions Through Hands-on Marine Science Internship Programme.

BIMINI, BAHAMAS – The MSC Foundation continues to deepen its investment in the next generation of Bahamian marine scientists through its growing collaboration with local educational institutions, providing students with meaningful opportunities to gain practical experience in marine conservation and environmental stewardship at its Marine Conservation Center at Ocean Cay, The Bahamas.

Building on its ongoing partnership with the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI), the Foundation recently welcomed its first two BAMSI interns to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, marking another milestone in its commitment to developing local talent and supporting environmental education in The Bahamas.

Second-year BAMSI students Danielle Mason and Jenna Johnson successfully completed a six-week internship at Ocean Cay, where they worked alongside the Foundation’s marine conservation team while earning academic credit toward their Associate of Science degrees in Marine Science. The programme combines classroom learning with practical workplace experience, allowing students to develop professional skills while exploring careers in marine conservation.

The internship builds on the MSC Foundation’s growing collaboration with BAMSI, which has included student immersion experiences and educational exchanges, and complements the Foundation’s broader partnerships with Bahamian institutions, including the University of The Bahamas, local schools, and environmental organisations. Together, these initiatives are helping to strengthen local capacity and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

Throughout the programme, the students participated in a wide range of educational and professional development activities. They attended lectures on coral biology, reef ecology and restoration techniques, gained experience maintaining coral nurseries and support facilities, assisted with guest engagement programmes, developed educational materials for visitors, and strengthened their public speaking and science communication skills.

As part of their internship, the students also supported the Foundation’s environmental awareness initiatives by participating in guided guest experiences, educational presentations, and the “We Move for Coral” guided tour, helping to inspire greater appreciation for coral reef conservation among visitors to Ocean Cay.

“This internship has given me an incredible opportunity to connect what I’ve learned in the classroom with real-world conservation work,” said Danielle Mason. “My passion is coral ecology and reef restoration, and being able to learn alongside experienced professionals has strengthened my confidence and reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in marine science. It’s inspiring to know that the work being done here contributes to protecting one of The Bahamas’ greatest natural treasures.”

For fellow intern Jenna Johnson, the experience represented the next step in a journey that began with an immersion visit to Ocean Cay.

“From my first immersion visit to Ocean Cay, I knew I wanted to return and learn more,” Johnson said. “This internship has allowed me to build practical skills, gain valuable experience communicating with guests about marine conservation, and better understand the many career opportunities available in this field. I’m grateful to the MSC Foundation and BAMSI for creating opportunities that encourage young Bahamians to grow professionally while helping to protect our marine environment.”

Emeline Bouchet, Programme Manager of the MSC Foundation, said the initiative reflects the Foundation’s commitment to investing in both people and the future of marine conservation in The Bahamas.

“Meaningful conservation begins with education and collaboration,” said Bouchet. “Our partnerships with Bahamian educational institutions are creating opportunities for students to develop practical skills, gain confidence, and work alongside professionals who are passionate about protecting our oceans. We are proud to support these talented young Bahamians as they prepare to become the next generation of marine scientists and environmental leaders, while strengthening our long-term commitment to conservation and capacity building in The Bahamas.”

The internship programme reflects the MSC Foundation’s long-term commitment to fostering local capacity, supporting scientific education, and creating pathways for Bahamian students to pursue careers in marine science and environmental conservation. As the Foundation continues its work through its Super Coral Reefs Programme and other conservation initiatives, partnerships with local educational institutions remain central to its mission of inspiring and empowering future ocean stewards.