PAREO "Le Patrimoine Récifal de l’Océan Indien entre nos mains" brings together scientific and environmental stakeholders with the aim of transmitting scientific knowledge on the subject to children, their parents, and their teachers in a fun way.

Its objectives: to ensure a better understanding of the wealth of the natural and cultural heritage of the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean; to reconnect children with the coral reefs, so they can better grasp their environment and adapt their behaviors; to promote networking among stakeholders (children, decision-makers, associations) to enhance local heritage, understand the global functioning, and ensure joint management of the coral reefs.

Is actions: transmitting knowledge using the MARECO educational toolkit, a playful educational resource that includes games and a book to understand the complexity of coral reefs, created by a team of scientists from IRD; connecting with the environment to better act and adapt behaviors; networking stakeholders for a shared vision of coral reef protection.

Phase 2 of PAREO took place between April and October 2023, starting with a training session (provided by Reef Conservation) for the teachers of the schools participating in the project: the École du Nord of Mapou, the École Étoile de Mer of Roches Noires, the Centre d'Apprentissage Pailles-En-Queue of Grand-Gaube, and the BCC School of Pailles.

During the interventions in schools, the Bis Lamer, an educational and traveling caravan from Reef, was present each time to reinforce the knowledge shared at the beginning of the session about coral. The project included sea and land outings, workshops led by four Mauritian artists – Kan Chan Kin, Joshila Dhaby, Yannick Durhône and Saleema Pierre.

To learn more about the PAREO project: https://www.facebook.com/PareoProject

To contact Reef Conservation: 262 6775