The James Michel Foundation commemorates World Oceans Day through a one-day conference on the economic opportunities that the oceans present and the need to keep our oceans healthy so that they can continue to take care of mankind.

Some 75 young students from Secondary 4 up to university level attended the conference at the Espace Building which houses the offices of the Foundation.

Former President James Michel provided the opening speech at the conference, which was then followed by a keynote address from the Principal Secretary for Fisheries and Agriculture, Mr. Jude Talma.

The conference participants saw presentations from 13 different public organisations and NGOs directly and indirectly involved with the blue economy. The students had very interesting and pertinent questions especially in relation to job opportunities and coral rehabilitation.