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HELMEPA and Marevivo Empower Students of Nautical Schools with Ocean and Climate Knowledge

As national partner of the “Nauticinblu Europe” project, HELMEPA engaged 173 students from Nautical High Schools across Greece in expert-led seminars and interactive workshops. The participants explored ocean literacy, climate change, and the blue economy, gaining the tools to connect future maritime careers with environmental responsibility.

“Nauticinblu Europe” is a cross-border initiative involving Nautical Institutes from Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Spain, ideated and coordinated by the Italian environmental Foundation Marevivo with the support of the MSC Foundation. In Greece, the program is implemented by the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association (HELMEPA), aligning with the Association’s mission of shaping environmentally responsible seafarers and marine professionals, and strengthening international cooperation in promoting environmental education and sustainable maritime practices.

In Greece, 173 students from three Nautical High Schools - 1st Vocational High School of Agia Paraskevi (Athens), 1st Vocational High School of Salamina, and 1st Vocational High School of Kardamyla (Chios) - took part in this transformative experience. Each school followed a unique five-day program combining indoor learning, outdoor action, and direct interaction with professionals in the maritime sector.

In Agia Paraskevi, 62 students engaged in a dynamic week of exploration, tackling pressing issues such as marine pollution and sustainable maritime careers. Their journey included English-language sessions at the inspiring ONLY ONE. One Planet, One Ocean One Health, Marevivo’s exhibition focused on the urgency of the ecological transition for a sustainable future. Among other activities, a beach cleanup and marine litter survey at Alykes Artemida, and a visit to Katradis Group, where they learned about the technology and practices behind mooring ropes. The program concluded with a collaborative ocean-themed art piece, now displayed at the school as a symbol of their commitment. Varvara Petridou, Director of the 1st Laboratory Center of Athens Sector B, reflected: “With its emphasis on ocean and climate literacy, the program introduced students to critical environmental issues through a highly engaging and interactive format. Through activities such as the ONLY ONE Exhibition, they connected deeply with our Blue Planet and its importance for life on Earth”.

In Salamina, 63 students participated in a vibrant program that began with discussions on ocean literacy and pollution. They carried out a real-time beach litter survey at their local beach, explored career pathways through a mentoring session with an experienced Navigation Manager, and learned about the principles of the circular economy during a visit to Blue Cycle, an initiative turning marine plastic waste into new products. Their experience concluded with meaningful personal commitments through HELMEPA’s digital pledges platform, where students committed to reduce single-use plastics and minimize their carbon footprint.

In Kardamyla, Chios, 48 students took part in a week of experiential learning and community engagement. As citizen scientists, they led a beach cleanup at Lagada, explored climate resilience using HELMEPA’s Chios Climate Chance toolkit, and took part in a mentoring session with a maritime professional. A visit aboard a working vessel provided an inspiring, hands-on look at sustainable shipping careers. Student participants Alexandros Panagiotopoulos and Isidoros Stoupakis shared their thoughts: “We learned how important it is to care for the sea and the environment, and how every action counts. Speaking with people in our community made us feel part of something greater. For us, the sea represents life - and this program helped us realize how much we need to respect and safeguard it”. The week ended with a powerful group activity where students synthesized local stakeholder perspectives and presented key challenges and proposed solutions to their classmates.

Now in its second successful year in Greece, Marevivo’s “Nauticinblu Europe” with HELMEPA’s local support continues to build momentum, inspiring youth across the country.

As HELMEPA’s Director General, Olga Stavropoulou, highlighted:
“At HELMEPA, collaboration isn’t just a method - it’s our mindset. Addressing global challenges like marine protection requires open platforms of trust, shared knowledge, and strong, field-tested partnerships. That’s why “Nauticinblu Europe”, our joint initiative with Marevivo, has been so impactful. What truly sets this collaboration apart is our commitment to co-designing every step with young people - listening to their needs, adapting with flexibility, and empowering them not only to learn, but to take action. Throughout this journey, participants didn’t just gain environmental knowledge - they developed vital soft skills like teamwork, communication, and critical thinking. Most importantly, they became part of a dynamic European network of informed, motivated ocean advocates. When we build with youth - not for them - the results are personal, lasting, and transformative”.