On 13 May 2024, the Legal and Technical Commission of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) confirmed the selection of four candidates from developing countries to benefit from training opportunities offered by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries of the Republic of Korea (MOF-ROK) in accordance with its obligations under the exploration contract for in the Clarion-Clipperton Fracture Zone signed with ISA in 2001.
The selected candidates are:
- Ana C. Vasquez Vargas from Costa Rica
- Wanni Arachchige Damitha Nayananjani Monarawila from Sri Lanka
- Noufal KN from India
- Alvin Anto from India.
Under the MOF-ROK Contractors Training programme (CTP), each candidate has been offered the possibility to participate in Dive 3 of the ISA e-learning training platform, Deep Dive.
Dive 3 encompasses all five modules available on the platform, including UNCLOS and governance of the Area (Module 1), marine mineral resources of the Area (Module 2), marine scientific research in the Area (Module 3), protection of the marine environment from activities carried out in the Area (Module 4) and technology development and innovation in relation to the sustainable development of mineral resources of the Area (Module 5). This represents approximately a total of 150 hours of learning delivered by more.
It provides a comprehensive understanding of the Area’s legal and scientific framework, with a focus on key features and technological advancements. The modules offer mandatory lessons alongside elective choices, ensuring access to the most advanced and comprehensive set of knowledge provided by internationally renowned experts in the field.
MOF-ROK is committed to fostering international cooperation and knowledge exchange in the realm of deep-sea exploration and sustainable resource management. This initiative underscores the Republic of Korea’s dedication to promoting equitable access to education and technological advancements in marine sciences as well as enhanced deep-sea literacy.
The ISA contractors have an obligation to finance and facilitate practical training for personnel from developing States and those affiliated with ISA. This includes involvement in all activities within the designated area covered by the contract. These obligations are rooted in the provisions of UNCLOS and the 1994 Agreement and are detailed in the standard terms of exploration contracts with ISA. Please visit this page to learn more about the Contractors’ Training Programme