Four Seasons Launches Junior Marine Savers Programme for Maldivian Children

Four Seasons Resorts Maldives has launched the Junior Marine Savers programme, a conservation education initiative designed specifically for Maldivian children aged 8 to 12 from nearby inhabited islands. The programme operates across the company's two Maldivian properties — Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru — and provides hands-on marine science experiences that are typically accessible only to resort guests.

Participants engage in a structured curriculum that includes coral frame building, where children learn to attach coral fragments to metal frames that are then deployed on damaged reef sections. The programme also incorporates reef health monitoring using simplified survey techniques, guided dolphin observation excursions in Baa Atoll's Hanifaru Bay, and visits to the Marine Discovery Centre's turtle rehabilitation facility, which currently houses 14 sea turtles recovering from injuries.

The initiative emerged from a recognition that many Maldivian children, despite growing up surrounded by one of the world's richest marine environments, have limited opportunities for structured marine education. Four Seasons' resident marine biologist, Dr. Hana Amir, noted that fewer than 15% of Maldivian primary schools include marine science in their curriculum. 'These children will inherit these reefs,' she said. 'They deserve to understand what they are inheriting and how to protect it.'

The programme is offered free of charge and includes boat transfers from nearby islands, meals, and all equipment. Four Seasons has committed to enrolling at least 200 children per year across both properties, with plans to develop a certified marine science module that could be adopted by the Ministry of Education for broader implementation in island schools.