Ministry of Education recognize work of IFAW

The Government of Dominica through the Ministry of Education has recognized the work of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) towards Dominica’s turtle and marine life conservation efforts.

IFAW over the years has worked on a number of conservation projects on the island; the most recent being an onboard- and in-school education program, dubbed the “Floating Classroom".

Through the floating classroom program, primary school students have been taught about marine conservation and have been exposed to topics such as the ocean food webs, whales, dolphins, coral reefs and marine debris.

IFAW in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, CARIBwhale Inc.- an Association of Caribbean Whale Watching Operators and the Dominica Youth Environment Association has been conducting the Floating Classrooms programme in Dominica for more than ten years.

On Tuesday May 08, 2012 Education Minister Hon. Petter Saint Jean during a presentation ceremony thanked IFAW for its work done on the island especially with the island’s youth.

“I really want to commend your officers who have been working with us in our schools around the island, ensuring that we do not go out there and destroy what in effect can bring tremendous revenue for our country”.

The education minister added that the floating classroom program has been an ideal one.

“We believe we have to catch them when they are young and the floating classroom is a tremendous initiative that focuses on conservation while the children are still young.  I believe that the message that you are sending across to the Dominican populace through our children is exceptional in every realm.”

The Education Minister presented a plaque of appreciation to IFAW’S visiting Representative Patrick Ramage on behalf of the Government of Dominica.

“I am really delighted for the tremendous effort that you are making at ensuring that our people understand the whole concept of protection and conservation of our resources. The Government of Dominica is grateful for the work being done by IFAW”.

IFAW Representative Patrick Ramage accepted the plaque of recognition. Ramage said Dominica is a shining model in its conservation efforts.

“This plaque here is very meaningful to us. I can assure you that the ripple effect of your government’s commitment to protection of the national environment really is felt internationally. Dominica shines as a model of leadership, of striking its own path, setting its own course in a variety of international forums, putting at the forefront the conservation of the natural heritage this beautiful island has been blessed with”.

As a conservation advocate, Ramage said” that inspiring commitment is something that really serves to energize and inspire us in our daily lives whether in classrooms far away or in the halls of Government. Your personal leadership and the example of this beautiful island really do have a global impact and we are humbled by that leadership and very grateful to receive this recognition today”.

IFAW for several years has worked with Dominica in training whale watching guides. Additionally over the years the island’s whale watching industry has benefitted from field research conducted by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).