Koror, Palau — From October 6–11, young Palauans once again dove deep, both in the classroom and in the ocean, during the latest Palau Pledge Dive Camp, a weeklong program held during intersession breaks to connect youth with their environment through hands-on learning, cultural experiences, and dive training.
The camp opened on Monday with a visit to the PCC Cooperative Research & Extension (CRE) in Ngermeskang, Ngermlengui, where students learned how modern science and traditional knowledge work hand-in-hand to address Palau’s environmental challenges. They explored tissue culture, plant care, and disease prevention, and got hands-on experience in traditional farming: learning about composting, and seeing how these practices support food security. By learning about agriculture before diving, the campers saw how land-based practices affect ocean health, reinforcing the connection between land and sea. The day ended with a refreshing swim in the nearby river, a perfect way to wrap up a day of learning and exploration.
On Tuesday, the campers joined the Micronesian Voyaging Society (MVS) for a hands-on lesson in traditional navigation. Guided by Grandmaster Navigator Sesario Sewralur and his crew, they set sail aboard the Alingano Maisu, learning that steering the large paddle takes real strength and that raising the sail requires teamwork and coordination. Back on shore, they practiced husking and grinding coconuts, an essential skill for voyagers in the past. The lesson connected to what they learned at CRE about okau: food for journey, much like a “bento” today. The experience reminded campers that navigation is not only about sailing but also about identity, heritage, and the deep connection between Palauans and the sea.
From Wednesday to Friday, campers began their dive training and certification with Fish ’n Fins, taking their first steps toward becoming open water divers. After classroom lessons, they headed to the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon to apply their new skills. At Ngermeaus, they practiced using dive equipment in the water, gaining confidence through hands-on experience. By Friday at Ngerchong, they were refining their buoyancy and movement underwater—a key milestone for safe and enjoyable diving. Throughout the training, the campers connected their learning about land, ocean, and sustainability to their growing skills beneath the surface.
The camp concluded on Saturday with a fun dive at Ulong Sandbar and Ulong Wall, where campers completed their final dives and officially earned their open water certifications. They witnessed Palau’s vibrant marine biodiversity firsthand; spotting sharks, giant trevally, manta rays, and even a spotted eagle ray. The experience was both educational and awe-inspiring, reinforcing the importance of protecting Palau’s ocean for future generations.
This Dive Camp was especially meaningful as it marked a new partnership with Fish ’n Fins, one of Palau’s longest-standing dive shops. It also welcomed back Palau Pledge Ambassador LeBron Basilius, an advanced open water diver and alumnus of the Dive Camp program, who assisted throughout the training.
“It’s a great opportunity I encourage young Palauans to apply for,” LeBron shared. “It’s in our own backyard—a whole different world that we should explore and understand. Getting certified helps us take responsibility to protect it for generations to come.”
The week-long Dive Camp once again proved to be more than just a training—it was a journey of connection, discovery, and pride in Palau’s heritage. By combining traditional wisdom, modern science, and hands-on ocean experience, the program continues to inspire young Palauans to become informed and responsible stewards of their island home. FRIENDS looks forward to continuing these camps during future school intersessions, nurturing the next generation of ocean guardians.
The week-long Dive Camp once again proved to be more than just a training—it was a journey of connection, discovery, and pride in Palau’s heritage. By combining traditional wisdom, modern science, and hands-on ocean experience, the program continues to inspire young Palauans to become informed and responsible stewards of their island home. FRIENDS extends its heartfelt thanks to PCC-CRE, the Micronesian Voyaging Society, Fish ’n Fins, and Palau Pledge Ambassador LeBron Basilius for dedicating their time and expertise to teach and inspire our new divers. This program was made possible with support from the GEF Small Grants Programme.