Ocean Campus teacher takes the helm at MCEN Western Cape

The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Ocean Campus is proud to celebrate one of our very own educators Anzio Abels, who has officially been voted in as the new Western Cape regional chairperson for the Marine and Coastal Educators Network.

This exciting appointment recognises Anzio’s passion for marine education, environmental awareness, and collaborative learning within South Africa’s coastal and oceanic education sector.

What is MCEN?

The Marine and Coastal Educators Network (MCEN) is a network of environmental educators representing various organisations involved in marine and coastal education across South Africa. Established in 2000 under the South African Network for Coastal and Oceanic Research, MCEN creates opportunities for educators to connect, collaborate, and strengthen marine and environmental learning initiatives nationwide.

What does MCEN do?

MCEN plays a vital role in advancing marine and coastal education in South Africa. One of its flagship initiatives is the annual national conference, hosted in a different province each year. The conference gives delegates the opportunity to participate in immersive, hands-on activities that expose them to the unique environmental and educational experiences of the host region.

In addition to the national conference, each region hosts annual workshops and contributes to a growing database of marine and coastal educators in South Africa. Through these initiatives, MCEN supports knowledge-sharing, professional development, and meaningful collaboration between educators and organisations.

Why does MCEN exist?

At its core, MCEN exists to advance marine and coastal education by creating a collaborative environment for teachers and environmental educators. The network supports educators in aligning their teaching activities with the CAPS curriculum while also helping identify marine education opportunities throughout the country.

By encouraging collaboration and innovation, MCEN continues to strengthen environmental education and inspire greater awareness of South Africa’s marine ecosystems.

Looking ahead to the 2027 national conference

The annual MCEN conference is one of the most important gatherings for marine and coastal educators in the country, bringing together teachers and organisations to share knowledge, ideas, and practical experiences.

In 2027, the conference will be hosted in the Western Cape. As the newly elected regional chairperson, Anzio will lead the local steering committee responsible for coordinating and running the week-long national event.

Reflecting on the appointment and the responsibility ahead, Anzio shared:

“I’m feeling slightly overwhelmed with the task of coordinating the upcoming national conference in 2027, but grateful for this opportunity to collaborate with other local organisation representatives in working towards making it a successful and impactful experience for those who will be in attendance.”

Ocean Campus is incredibly proud of Anzio’s achievement and looks forward to seeing the positive impact this leadership role will have on marine and environmental education in the Western Cape and beyond.