Developing capacity for ocean science and technology

The ability of coastal nations to manage their coastal and marine environments is vital in the development and maintenance of national blue economies following the 2030 Agenda. Thus, capacity development (CD) is an important priority area to strengthen education and training for various stakeholders to help create an appropriately trained workforce able to develop, implement, and expand blue economies, especially in developing countries. The chapter is separated into three parts. Part one provides a synthesis of existing global and regional initiatives that build the foundation of CD for ocean sciences. Some multilateral initiatives that are discussed are the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, the Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (SCOR), and the Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO). The Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) is presented as a prime example for a regional CD organization. Part two showcases lessons learned from case studies and success stories from training programs such as summer schools that bring together students from various backgrounds for intensive theoretical and practical training on cross-cutting topics. Part three provides recommendations for scientists, policymakers, and the private industry to accelerate global CD efforts and responses to achieve SDG 14 in the current decade.