The Save the Turtle Forum, initiated by Baa Atoll Kendhoo School, was developed as an environmental education and community awareness initiative aimed at strengthening students’ understanding of endangered species, marine conservation, and the importance of protecting Baa Atoll’s natural environment.

Although the programme was initially scheduled to commence in 2015, implementation was delayed due to changes to the academic calendar by the Ministry of Education and the requirement to obtain the necessary permits from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Following the necessary arrangements, a range of activities were carried out to achieve the objectives of the initiative.

A key component of the project was providing students with first-hand knowledge and practical experience of important conservation sites. The first major activity undertaken by Kendhoo School was a field visit to the Hanifaru Marine Protected Area, including Hanifaru Bay and Hanifaru Island. A total of 17 students from Kendhoo School participated in the field trip, giving them an opportunity to experience the protected area directly, learn about its ecological significance, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting marine species and their habitats.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office played an important role in facilitating the Hanifaru site visit and supporting the students throughout the activity. The Office provided guidance on the protected area, its conservation significance, and the measures required to ensure responsible visits. This support helped make the site visit a safe, informative, and meaningful learning experience for the students.

Other activities undertaken through the project included community awareness sessions on endangered species, a waste management study tour to Soneva Fushi in collaboration with the Island Council, awareness sessions for students and parents, field visits to turtle nesting and hatching areas, distribution of reusable bags, and installation of environmental awareness billboards on the island.

The project demonstrated the value of combining classroom learning with practical, community-based conservation activities. By allowing students to directly experience the environment they are learning about, the initiative helped develop greater awareness, appreciation, and responsibility towards Baa Atoll’s natural heritage.

The Save the Turtle Forum provided students with an opportunity not only to learn about conservation, but also to become active participants in protecting their environment. The knowledge and experiences gained through the project can be carried forward into their families and communities, helping to build a stronger culture of environmental stewardship.

As an end-of-project initiative, the Save the Turtle Forum represents an important investment in the next generation of conservation advocates and community leaders, while strengthening collaboration between schools, communities, Island Councils, and the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office in safeguarding the natural heritage of Baa Atoll.