Fiji Marine Conservation Internship
Enter the global scuba diving industry with a professional diving qualification combined with work experience and marine conservation training.On this instructive internship, you will spend time diving in the tropical waters of Caqalai, while participating in local conservation efforts.
Program Focus
Short term marine conservation interns will be trained in the identification of invertebrate, fish or benthic (coral) target species and life forms. Once fully trained in species ID, volunteers will be taught several survey techniques allowing them to become a member of the GVI data collection survey team building an inventory of marine species in Moturiki waters. Short term intern volunteers will also have the chance to assist in the delivering lessons focussed on environmental awareness in two schools on Moturiki Island. The short term interns will stay a minimum of 8 weeks on the marine conservation expedition gaining their PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water and Coral Reef Research Diver certifications and participate in data collection. There may also be a chance to gain their Emergency First Responder and Rescue Diver certifications. In addition, short term interns will complete the GVI Leadership Training Course and GVI Internship. Weekly assignments must be completed and there will be weekly 1-on-1 meetings with a staff mentor.
Location
Fiji is an archipelago of over 300 islands located in the Pacific Ocean. This destination offers more than the classic island paradise experience. Yes, it has long stretches of pearly white beaches lined with palm trees and a warm, clear and blue-tinted sea. But its waters are home to nearly half of the world's known coral species. This makes for endlessly fascinating diving and snorkelling experiences among its polychromatic underwater wonderlands. The country is also a leader in sustainability and ecotourism, effectively managing its natural resources and economically benefiting from this investment. By volunteering in Fiji, you’ll be able to experience the natural abundance of Pacific environments while learning how to best preserve them.
Program Highlights
- Enhancing your scuba diving skills with daily dives (weather permitting).
- Conducting underwater surveys in the warm waters of the Pacific.
- Discover a myriad of fascinating marine creatures to study and experience the stunning coral reefs of Fiji
- Spending time getting to know the local community.
- If staying 8 weeks or longer you will complete your Biological Survey Techniques training and qualification.
- Earn your GVI Team Leadership certificate, a qualification recognised by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM)
- Cultural immersion in the Fijian way of life.
- Data collection on targeted fish, invertebrate and benthic species.
- Habitat mapping for coral reefs and mangrove (Coral Reef and Mangrove Habitat mapping).
- Development of an environmental education and awareness program for local schools and communities.
- Development of terrestrial and marine environmental best practice on Caqalai Island.
If applying for this program to obtain credit from an institution, GVI can supply learning outcomes and support in the application.
For more information, check out our video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8MVCEHiX4Y