Ocean Wise and Classrooms Without Walls Bringing Ocean Education to Students Around the World

For many young people living through conflict and displacement, access to education can be uncertain. Through a partnership with Classrooms Without Walls, Ocean Wise is helping ensure that curiosity, learning, and connection continue to thrive by bringing engaging ocean education programs directly to students around the world.

Since joining the initiative in 2022, Ocean Wise educators have delivered virtual learning experiences that introduce students to the wonders of the ocean, from whales and sharks to deep-sea ecosystems and marine biodiversity. What began as a series of online lessons has evolved into a vibrant community of young learners eager to explore the natural world, ask questions, practice English, and share their passion for ocean life.

The partnership supports students in Ukraine, Myanmar, and other regions where conflict has disrupted access to traditional education. Through live, interactive sessions, Ocean Wise educators create opportunities for youth to connect with nature, learn about science and conservation, and experience moments of joy and discovery.

“Young people everywhere share a remarkable curiosity about the ocean,” says Ocean Wise educator Mala Sharma. “These programs help keep that curiosity alive while inspiring students to see themselves as future scientists, conservationists, and leaders.”

For Mala, the sessions are among the most rewarding parts of her work.

“The students are incredibly engaged and always have thoughtful questions,” she says. “Even though we may be separated by thousands of kilometres, we are able to connect through a shared wonder for the ocean. It is inspiring to see their resilience, enthusiasm, and love for learning.”

Classrooms Without Walls was founded in response to the educational disruption caused by the war in Ukraine. Since then, the organization has connected thousands of students with volunteer educators, experts, museums, scientists, and institutions from around the world, creating opportunities for learning, hope, and global connection.

Classrooms Without Walls founder David Falconer has seen firsthand how these experiences can make a difference for students facing extraordinary challenges.

“What has always stood out to me about Ocean Wise is that their support goes far beyond simply delivering a program,” says Falconer. “They have shown a genuine willingness to work with us, understand the circumstances of the young people we serve, and find ways to make their learning accessible and engaging. For students living through very difficult circumstances, having the opportunity to connect with educators from around the world and explore topics such as our oceans, conservation and the environment is incredibly valuable.”

Falconer notes that the partnership demonstrates the power of global collaboration to create meaningful learning opportunities for youth. By providing engaging, interactive experiences that foster curiosity and connection, Ocean Wise is helping students build knowledge, confidence, and hope during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.

Together, Ocean Wise and Classrooms Without Walls are demonstrating the power of education to transcend borders. Every session provides more than knowledge about marine life. It offers students an opportunity to explore, imagine, connect, and look toward the future.

At Ocean Wise, we believe that ocean literacy is for everyone. By making learning accessible to youth regardless of geography or circumstance, we are helping to foster the next generation of ocean advocates and environmental leaders.

As the partnership continues to grow, Ocean Wise remains committed to sharing the wonders of the ocean with students wherever they are, proving that curiosity, learning, and hope can travel far beyond the classroom.

Classrooms Without Walls is currently looking for teachers and non-teachers alike to volunteer to teach lessons on elementary, secondary, and university subjects or to teach hobbies or other skills.

To volunteer with Classrooms Without Walls or to support their mission, contact [email protected] or [email protected].