The 2026 Shanghai Summer School Marine Sustainable Development Program wrapped up on Friday at Shanghai Ocean University, gathering 30 youth participants from 14 nations across the world.
Launched in 2008, the Shanghai Summer School program is one of the city's key platforms to promote international education exchanges. The two-week long marine sustainable development program aimed to contribute global marine governance, and bridge global youth in a wide range of topics including marine ecological conservation, blue economy and sustainable utilization of marine resources.
Speaking on behalf of participants at the closing ceremony, Joe-Nkamuke Uzoamaka of Nigeria highlighted that during the two weeks, they were able to learn more about the ocean, the Chinese perspectives on its sacred value, the balance between utilization and conservation, and the importance of marine protected areas.
"These sessions deepened our understanding of marine sustainability and reminded us of our shared responsibility to protect the ocean for future generations," said Uzoamaka.
Malaysian participant Tee Jing Yien described the program as opening a door to the world of the ocean. The biological specimens and historical materials at the museum they visited gave them a deeper understanding of the ocean, while the lectures made them realize the significance and urgency of sustainable marine development.
During their stay, the youth participants were also offered diverse cultural activities to learn more about the beauty and richness of Chinese culture. They engaged in making Chinese hand fans with lacquer paint, painting with traditional Chinese brushes and paper, wearing Chinese traditional attire, and more.
"Here I made friends from all over the world. We come from different cultural backgrounds and speak different languages, but our love for Chinese culture and our pursuit of sustainable marine development have brought us closely together. I hope more youth could join in this program, and together we can better act to create a healthy and thriving ocean," said Tee.
