The DEEP (Dyer Island Conservation Trust Environmental Education Program) Blue Ambassadors program is a three-year engagement in partnership with Masakhane Primary and Gansbaai Primary in Gansbaai. Each year, 40 young people enroll with older students mentoring newcomers. We are proud to support this program.
DEEP connects children to the ocean, science, and conservation. Although Masakhane village is only 4 km from the sea, it is incredible to us that many learners have never been to the beach. DEEP addresses this by introducing the youth to the marine environment through experiential learning opportunities.
DEEP learning modules cover topics like marine species, wetlands, pollution, photography, and healthy living. Beyond science, the program builds confidence, leadership, and mentorship skills. As part of an ongoing legacy, second- and third-year students act as role models, supporting new participants. Former student Avuyile Nogaga carried what she learned into her daily life.
Community Needs
Local communities face high unemployment, which undermines children’s well-being and school success. South Africa’s official unemployment rate was 31.9% in 2024 (44.6% for youth), and many Masakhane families are without a stable income. In recent surveys, most parents reported that they are unemployed or earn only enough for basic food. Under these conditions, school expenses (uniforms, books, transport) are major burdens.
To overcome these barriers, the program provides wraparound support for every DEEP student, ensuring each child has the essentials to thrive at school.
- Stationery and Supplies: Each student will receive a full set of notebooks, pencils, calculators, and other materials for the school year. Studies indicate that students with the necessary supplies perform better academically and attend school more regularly. Ensuring every DEEP child is properly equipped will help them stay engaged and confident in class.
- School Uniforms: A complete uniform, including shoes, ensures students can attend school equally and boosts a sense of pride and belonging. Uniforms reduce distractions and prevent children from missing school due to a lack of clothing, improving attendance and learning.
- Nutritional Support: Hungry children can’t learn. Each weekly DEEP lesson includes a healthy snack or meal. Adequate nutrition improves cognitive function and academic focus.
- Water Safety and Swimming Lessons: To address the high risk of drowning, all DEEP students receive survival swimming classes. In South Africa, an average of 1,484 people drown each year, and 29% of those are children under 14. Sponsored swimming classes will give each child the skills and confidence to be safe around water.
- Experiential Learning Excursions: Exciting field trips broaden horizons such as visits to the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Iziko museum, theatre workshops, marine camps, Stoney Point African penguin colony, Hermanus marine pool, educational movies like David Attenborough’s Ocean, and monthly coastal cleanups. Exposing children to diverse experiences helps them envision new futures. As Dyer Island Conservation Trust Founder Wilfred Chivell notes, when youth connect physically and emotionally with the ocean, “education becomes more than just information – it becomes personal, powerful, and transformative”.
Well-supported students are more likely to stay in school, graduate, and pursue careers (possibly in conservation, tourism, or STEM). The program supports the local community by:
- Breaking the poverty cycle: By covering school essentials and meals, children can focus on learning rather than struggling at home.
- Improving safety: Swimming lessons directly reduce drowning risk for these kids in coastal communities.
- Inspiring the next generation: Hands-on ocean experiences turn students into passionate environmental stewards.
The DEEP program has already demonstrated success. When communities (parents, educators, NGOs) collaborate, we truly can raise ambassadors for the future protection of our oceans.