Aquaculture education challenges: Integrating sustainable practices into schools

Title : Aquaculture education challenges: Integrating sustainable practices into schools

Abstract:

Bringing aquaculture education into schools is essential for cultivating a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders and addressing global food security challenges. However, significant barriers impede this integration. This presentation examines the primary challenges educators face, including limited funding for aquaculture programs, shifting political policies that affect curriculum priorities, and the traditional focus of organizations like Future Farmers of America (FFA) on terrestrial agriculture. Additional hurdles, such as ensuring program continuity and fostering effective leadership, complicate efforts to establish long-term aquaculture initiatives.

By exploring these obstacles, this session aims to identify actionable solutions and inspire collaboration among educators, policymakers, and industry leaders. Join the discussion to address these pressing issues and work toward a future where aquaculture education becomes an integral part of school curriculums, fostering innovation and sustainability.

Biography:

Ms. Hesley studied Education at Arizona State University, USA, and graduated with a Master's of Education in 1997. She taught STEM to K-8 students. She received her Master of Science degree in 2015 at the University of Arizona in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering. After three years of teaching engineering to young students, she became grant writer and curriculum developer for CropKing, Inc., which sells greenhouses, hydroponics, and aquaculture equipment.  Ms. Hesley is now assisting in the development of an alternative high school graduation certificate for Ohio Board of Education.  She has spoken internationally at conferences on the benefits of aquaponics in the classroom