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2024 School Testimonials

Adelaja Rhoda Ireoluwa (M.Sc. Student, Lead City University, Ibadan).
Interest: Radiation and Health Physics

COESSING ’24 was an incredible and rewarding experience. I joined the Physical Oceanography (Ocean Currents sub-group). As a first-time attendee, I was initially nervous, worried that the field wasn’t my primary area of study. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I learned from the insightful talks, group projects, and field trips to working closely with my instructor. Connecting with others who share similar interests was a highlight, even though I sometimes struggle with anxiety.

I also gained a lot from the plastics group’s presentation and further asked one of the instructors, Richmond, about nurdles. Since returning, I’ve been raising awareness about plastic pollution, and now every time I see plastic, I chant their slogan, ‘plastic!!!, plastic punch!!!’. This experience has inspired me to consider a second master’s degree in Physical Oceanography or GIS. I’m proud of the project I presented with the help of my instructor. Thanks to all the instructors and Professor Brian for making this possible. I’m excited for the next summer school in Ghana!

Stella Aseye Adika (Ghanian Graduate Student at University of Yamanashi, Japan).

Interest: Waste Management, Microplastics & Environmental Protection.

Only 9% of all plastics produced are recycled globally. We cannot recycle our way out of the plastic pollution crisis we must Reduce and find alternatives. This was my take home from COESSING 2023 in Ghana, my first attendance. After the school, I felt so motivated and ready for graduate school. With the skill taught by Dr. Peter Knoop, I was able publish two ArcGIS story maps on Esri’s African Geoportal on behalf of the plastic group (see story: https://arcg.is/ujODG & https://arcg.is/vL0Tq0). I was so impacted that I began to save up for next year. I was surprised and elated when the school accepted to top up the remaining cost of my flight. I flew 25 hours from Japan to Nigeria to join COESSING 2024 and I did not regret it.

Assisting in nurdle hunt on the Elegushi beach for 10minutes and counting 1522 nurdles reminded me that there’s still so much work to be done in our field of oceanography (see this year’s storymap: https://shorturl.at/a6ub0). I networked with at least 15 people this year, one of whom I’m partnering to carry out a project and write a research paper. I was also invited to sit on a 5-member panel to educate participants on graduate school scholarships and grants application. I must admit, I felt like I was on a global stage, my confidence was heightened. I have attended many conferences filled with lectures, but COESSING is indeed an all-rounded school. Last year, there was a culture troop performance, and all participants and instructors danced to climax the school. In 2024 we visited the Yaba Tech art museums. This cultural aspect of COESSING is always a crowning touch for me. The arts speak to my soul and inspires me to do more. Brain, soul, body, heart; every part of my being was touched by this school. I can only pray that organizers receive enough financial support to increase the number of participants, reach more countries and keep this school alive to impact future generations. Let’s keep learning & working to protect Earth, It’s our only home for now!

Bosede Lydia Ogunwuyi (Graduate Assistant, Aquaculture and Fisheries Management
Department, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta).
Interest: Marine Biodiversity Conservation and Fisheries Management.

This is my second time attending COESSING. COESSING’22 was a transformative experience for me as an undergraduate student. What stands out about COESSING’24 is the inclusion of project groups. As a graduate of Fisheries and Aquaculture, I belonged to the Fisheries group and participated in field research to Makoko community, Lagos (one of the largest slums in West Africa). I was able to analysis data using QGIS and R-studio which is very relevant to my graduate school research interest. The summer school has greatly enhanced my knowledge, skill and expanded my network. I recommend COESSING for anyone passionate about research, networking, and the application of cutting-edge technology in their field and I hope it expands to more African countries so that more people across the continent can benefit from it. I am sincerely grateful to my fellow participants for the connections we’ve built. A big thanks to our dedicated instructors for their invaluable guidance and to the LOC for their seamless coordination. Lastly, I express my heartfelt appreciation to Professor Brian Arbic for his leadership and commitment to this impactful program.

Mohammed Hauwa Ameh (Research officer, NIOMR)
Interest: Environmental microbiology, pollution and molecular studies.
This is my first time attending COESSING summer school. The knowledge and exposure gained within the short period cannot be quantified. From arrival to lightning talks, then, field trips, sample collections and laboratory analysis were all truly empirical. I would love to go through the cycle again and again. Beyond the academic excitement, l joined the Biogeochemistry (Omic-sub group) and learned vital skills that gave me the needed push to delve into DNA manipulations in Marine Microorganisms. This came when I was really in need of such knowledge. I am really grateful to COESSING for the opportunity to network and interact with incredible and resourceful individuals from different states in Nigeria. It was a gathering of about 150 people from over 10 different countries with various areas of interest. One thing that also stands out is the COESSING WhatsApp platform where continuous links to relevant information, scholarships, conferences and other opportunities are shared hence there is continuous interactions beyond the 7 days in-person school. COESSING is indeed very beneficial, and I look forward to attending the next summer school.

Bamidele Samuel Oresajo. (Lecturer, Federal University Birnin Kebbi).
Interest: Sedimentology, Geochemistry & Paleoclimate.
COESSING ’24 was an incredible experience. As a first-time attendee, I was excited to join the Biogeochemistry project track, where I engaged with participants and instructors, gaining valuable insights from their diverse perspectives and expertise. This collaborative environment sparked meaningful knowledge exchange, expanding my understanding of coastal ocean environments. I was thrilled to join the Sedimentology subgroup, diving deeper into my area of interest and working on a research project with like-minded individuals. The field trip to the lagoon, labs, and NIOMR Research Vessel was a standout experience for me. Presenting our research findings was a moment of pride, showcasing our collective efforts and teamwork. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity, which has broadened my horizons, fostered connections, and inspired me to further explore coastal ocean environments.

Eunice Opeyemi Idowu (Professor, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti)
Attending COESSING for the first time has been a truly rewarding experience. I gained lots of experiences, knowledge and acquired new innovative skills that will enhance my teaching and research in no small way. We had five (5) Tutors in the Fisheries group who took us through: Effects of Climatic change on Fisheries at Makoko (which is the largest slum in Nigeria), Fish preservation and processing at Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (The NIOMR smoking kiln that filters off smoke from penetrating the smoked fish directly was introduced to us among other techniques such as filleting, fish canning), Fish Conservation and Data Analysis using QGIS and R-studio which is very relevant to my research activities. COESSING 2024 was full of excitement, and insightful innovations. There was also an opportunity to network, and collaborate with researchers in the same area of specialization. I look forward to subsequent editions of the programme.

Oluboba Taiwo Funke (PhD) (Chief Research Officer in Fisheries Resources Department,
Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Lagos, Nigeria)
Interest: Fisheries.
The year 2024 marked my first time attending the Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Nigeria (COESSING), and the experience has profoundly impacted my career. First, I witnessed how research is conducted in a unique and organized manner, from fieldwork and data analysis to the presentation of results and their application in solving real-world problems. Additionally, I learned how to deliver more effective presentations in a simple and engaging way. I also gained new skills in data analysis using QGIS, and R, which significantly enhanced our research, particularly in map design. Furthermore, COESSING provided me with a remarkable opportunity to connect with brilliant instructors, scientists, and students. It emphasized the importance of showcasing our research on social media platforms like LinkedIn. I am grateful to COESSING for involving such incredible and resourceful individuals. The program has greatly enhanced my knowledge, skills, and network. I look forward to an even better experience at COESSING in Ghana in 2025. Long live COESSING!

Balatrice Gifty Kerkula. (Liberian Masters’ Student at African Center of Excellence in Coastal Resilience, University of Cape Coast, Ghana.)
Interest: Environment Management and Marine Conservation
This is my first time attending COESSING summer school. I had the incredible opportunity to be part of the Science Plastics and Policy group. The experience was nothing short of transformative for me, particularly because it marked my first time working in a laboratory setting on plastic-related issues. Previously, my work had been rooted in the social science aspects of plastic, so this hands-on experience in the lab was a completely new and exciting venture. The
program provided an excellent platform to bridge the gap between the social and scientific aspects of plastic, allowing me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the material I’ve been so passionate about. The instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, guiding us through complex scientific processes with ease. It was thrilling to step into the lab, engage with cuttingedge research, and apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

This summer school broadened my technical skills and also deepened my appreciation for the multifaceted nature of plastic issues. It has inspired me to integrate more scientific perspectives into my future work, enhancing the impact of my efforts in addressing plastic pollution and I will love to be part of it again and again. I highly recommend COESSING to anyone looking to expand their horizons and gain new perspectives in the field of plastic science and policy. It’s an experience that will undoubtedly enrich your understanding and approach to environmental challenges. Special thanks and appreciation to Prof. Brian for giving me the opportunity to have to incredible experience, the LOC thank very much for the support and welcome and to my very own instructors from the Plastics group. Prof. Peter, Dr. Jane, Richmond, Dr Eben and everyone else. You all are the real MVPs for making this year COESSING amazing. Thank you once again.

Precious Etuk Akpan (Geophysicist, Xycene Company, University of Calabar, Nigeria.)
Interest: Exploration Geophysic/Phyisical Oceanography & Its Geophysics

I am thrilled to share my journey at COESSING, which has been instrumental in helping me
develop my Python skills over the past three years, (2022-2024). As a participant in the Physical Oceanography unit of the Summer School, I had the privilege of learning from experienced instructors and collaborating with like-minded individuals. COESSING’s comprehensive resources, interactive exercises, and real-world projects enabled me to progress from a beginner to a confident Python programmer. The platform’s structured approach and supportive community facilitated my growth, allowing me to tackle complex tasks and apply Python to practical problems in physical oceanography.

Through COESSING, I gained a deeper understanding of data analysis, visualization, and modeling techniques, which have been invaluable in my research and academic pursuits. The skills I acquired have opened doors to new opportunities, enabling me to contribute meaningfully to projects and collaborate effectively with colleagues at work. I am grateful for the COESSING team’s dedication and special thanks to Professor Brian Arbic, for putting out a selfless commitment towards providing high-quality educational resources and their commitment to fostering a community that promotes continuous learning, research and growth.

FALAYE Aderemi (Deputy Director, Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources).
Interest: Environmental management

As a policy maker, joining this summer school gave me a lot to take home (my place of work). Participating in the Plastic and Policy group opened my eye to alternate solutions to single use plastic which is a big menace in our water bodies. I had the opportunity to visit the Elegushi beach, carried out research on macro, meso and microplastics using the COLLECT protocol, conducted questionnaire surveys as well as nurdle hunt. We also did lab analysis in Yaba Tech Lab and had round table discussions for solutions. On the last day I was among the group of presenters for our team. I must admit this was a thrilling experience and exciting to be away from the desk for a while. It seemed like a fruitful vacation I wish will not end. I was impressed to be in the same team with two young Africans who have started their own NGOs to help the environment like Plastic Punch, Ghana and another from Nigeria. I believe there is hope for our future. With the connections established and all the knowledge gained, I look forward to making more informed decisions and I will definitely share this knowledge and invite my colleagues at work for future editions. I wish this school can be expanded to more countries and I personally will like to keep attending every year. I suggest more policy makers be invited since they play a crucial role in the ocean space. Very laudable program.

Balogun Oreoluwa. (Student, University of Lagos).
Interest: Fish and Crop Farming.

Attending COESSING ’24 for the first time was an incredible experience for me. I gained more knowledge about my study field, our visit to Makoko Fishing folks and communicate with the people over there makes us understand the fishing process in the community. We visited NIOMR where I learnt a lot about fish processing, fish canning, I saw the NIOMR kiln, and I learnt how to make healthy snacks out of Fish. I learnt how to use R programme, taught by Dr George and Dr Anthi, which will be useful for my own personal project. Our coordinators were super amazing, the likes of Dr Ngozi, Dr Eunice, Dr Sabaola, Dr Anthi, Dr George, thank you all. And Special appreciation to Professor Brain for these wonderful opportunities and all the COESSING Team that made this a possibility. Thank you.

Damilola Grace Olanipon, PhD. (Lecturer and Research Scientist, Afe Babalola University, Nigeria)
Interest: Molecular Ecology and Environmental Studies.

My active participation at COESSING 2024 has sharpened my skills in eDNA analysis, with critical skills learnt in proteomics. The hands-on sessions coupled with the availability of highly knowledgeable instructors are rewarding, it was not a ‘theoretical’ training but a highly practical one from sample collection to getting relatable results.
I am most grateful to my instructors, Katie Rotche and Mak Saito, you both are so amazing! To the wonderful LOC, I must say that the organization was superb, and I had a splendid time at the Yaba Art Museum. I really want to appreciate Prof. Brian Arbic and the sponsors for your large heart and choosing to invest so much in Africa, your name is being written in the sands of time.
To the most energetic Dr. J., your positive spirit is highly contagious. It’s a great privilege to meet and form new networks with other participants. Hope to see you all, soon! Let’s keep doing great
things in our corners, soon the whole world will hear our success stories. COESSING 2024 remains a memorable experience for me.

2023 School Testimonials

Natuhwera Merolyne – Makerere University, Uganda

Being at COESSING 2023 was a great opportunity I cannot forget in my career. It opened up my mind and interest in the area of coastal and environmental research. From the opening ceremony, group trainings to the close of the 2023 summer school was a complete migration from darkness to light in coastal research. I was a participant in Microplastic group; our field trip to the lagoon for sample collections revealed how much of microplastics pollutants are present in our lagoons. It broadened my knowledge on my research as an environmental and public health microbiologist as I now look into isolation and characterizations of Microplastics in fishes from different lagoons in Africa. My team and I have been working on microplastic and my presence at the COESSING 2023 triggered our motivations for the research. Kudos to a visionary leader with high capacity like Prof. Brian and other resourceful team members working with him across the globe. I will continue to be a witness to the impact of COESSING globally! – AMOLEGBE, Oluwatosin Aishat, Lecturer, Biological Science Department, Yaba College of Technology, Lagos Nigeria

It [COESSING 2023] was an incredibly informative and eye-opening experience. The summer was well-structured and provided an interesting variety of marine topics, which was my first of its kind for physical participation in a science assembly event. Through the event, I was able to create a network with a number of participants from different backgrounds in marine science, and this opened me up to planning a collaborative research project led by the University of Ghana and the University of Lagos. The project, titled ‘Fisherfolk Perceptions of Climate Change Impacts on Fisheries and the Adaption Strategies (Somalia, Ghana, and Nigeria), aims to gain insight into climate-induced changes in fisheries and develop resilience strategies. This collaboration enhances global understanding of Somalia’s marine resources and promotes knowledge exchange across borders. — Abdirahman Mohamed, Fisheries Technical Specialist, Inclusive Resilience in Somalia (IRiS) Program, Somalia

My experience as a virtual participant at the Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Nigeria and Ghana (COESSING 2022-2023) was truly remarkable. The program, held both in-person and virtually, featured a comprehensive curriculum, including lectures, panels, and tutorials, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The online component was thoughtfully designed, dispelling any preconceived notions that virtual participants might have limited learning opportunities. The program showcased a commitment to providing a robust educational platform in the field of oceanography. The hybrid nature of the 2023 school allowed participants like me to engage with experts and peers from diverse geographical locations, enriching the overall learning experience and leaving a lasting impression on my understanding of coastal ocean environments. — Okwong John Walter, Environmental Consultant and a volunteer for the 2022 in-person school

Returning to teach at COESSING after serving as an instructor for the first time in 2022 has been hugely rewarding, and continues to shape my ideas about what constitutes good pedagogy and impactful capacity building. It was wonderful seeing familiar faces from the 2022 program and hearing how their cohort has continued to draw on those peer networks and skillsets initiated in just a week together in Lagos. At the same time, this year’s program, held in Accra and run with a new, project-based format, was in so many ways distinct from the 2022 experience. I feel that this new format is a promising step in the way of empowering participants, by allowing small groups to author their own science questions and practice new skills in a problem-driven context. —Lois S. Anderson, Physical Oceanography PhD student, Rutgers University

2022 School Testimonials

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[COESSING] is the best thing that has ever happened to me as an undergraduate 

— Lydia Bosede, undergraduate student, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria

I had an amazing week as a virtual participant last week at the Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Nigeria and Ghana (COESSING 2022) summer school. Before then, I had a conclusive remark that online participants won’t have much to learn, but the story was different after I attended the first day. I  was amazed by how much the live event was streamed and the engagement online participants had. It felt like I was physically present.

— Sarah Akojenu, geo-spatial analyst/data scientist/Women Techsters Fellow 2023, Nigeria

Attending Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Nigeria COESSING has been an amazing experience. It has given me the opportunity to meet resourceful persons from countries around the world with a diverse knowledge of oceanography, environmental health and world climate. Kudos to the facilitators and instructors!

— Iyanuoluwa Adegbuyi, environmental health analyst, graduate student, University of Lagos, Nigeria

COESSING coming to Nigeria has triggered motivation, self confidence, and self belief across young academics and scientists in Nigeria. COESSING 2022 is like pointing a light in a dark tunnel for people who were in darkness to see the light and navigate. I can’t wait for more COESSING experiences. In my 10 years of studies and 5 years of lecturing in Nigeria, I have not experienced what I experienced in COESSING 2022. The positive impact is just too quick. I will preach the gospel of COESSING till forever!  — Victor Eyo, Lecturer, Nigeria Maritime University, Nigeria

I am very delighted to have attended this year’s summer school in-person. I have learned a lot about oceanography, and at the same time, I am very happy to have stayed a day extra to have one-on-one discussion with most of the instructors. Engaging them in discussion gave me inspiration to earnestly walk my career path with strong determination, irrespective of the challenges and barriers on my part to success, influence and impact in life. After my engagement with the instructors, …I have decided with strong determination to also become great and also give to the world at large, starting with my immediate environment. Also, I will let everyone I meet know about the COESSING SUMMER SCHOOL and its impact on my life. — Oluwaseyifunmi Paul Olowookere, Student, Redeemer’s University, Nigeria

This is my story. Last week Friday [just before the in-person school], I was involved in a ghastly accident that took the life of a person and landed another person in the ICU unit. I survived with a LOT of flesh wounds. Although I could barely shake people and I had to wear long sleeve shirt throughout, I will say this happen to be one of the best conference that I have attended as it helps me gain more insight about what my department (Marine Science and Technology) really entails and how to combine all the different disciple to study the ocean, I also connected with many people (Instructors, Professionals and Students) who have a passion in studying the ocean. — Oladepo Lawal, President, National Association of Marine Geoscience Students, Nigeria

Just completed another summer school on coastal environment (Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Nigeria and Ghana) and it was exceptionally delivered by a world class team of experts. No doubt, such programmes are needed to improve capacity building of both graduates students, early career academics and professionals whose activities are connected to the marine environment. — Adekunle S. Raji, Geoenvironmental Researcher, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Nigeria

I’m so happy to [participate virtually in the summer school] this year.  It’s another experience for me to just learn how things are going and how it’s been going [in the past]. I was so impressed to learn about the story of how this came together to be today a great summer school as it’s now. Very inspiring . I enjoyed it so much even with the time delay here [in California] which was not easy but I learned a lot and was happy to see my African brothers and sisters giving some great talks in marine science.  With the experience I’m learning this year I will be very happy to participate in the next coming years as in person instructor. — Babette Tchonang, Postdoctoral Research Scientist NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, USA

My experience as a first-time COESSING instructor helped me build valuable new perspective – on my place in the global scientific community, on the wealth of knowledge held by our West African colleagues, and on intersections of science, policy, and health unique to this region. I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to learn, grow, and work alongside participants to achieve their goals, whether that be identifying a plan for applying to graduate school or reproducing their favorite publication figure in python. I am excited to see an initiative like this gaining traction and making impact where important scientific voices often go unheard. I look forward to returning to COESSING to build on the relationships and progress made in 2022, and I can’t wait to see what wonderful work my African peers pioneer in the future. —Lois S. Anderson, Physical Oceanography PhD student, Rutgers University (left-most in photo)

2019 School Testimonials

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COESSING 2019 is at the top of my list of beautiful experiences. At Accra, I explored science with a diverse and optimistic group in a way I never had. The lectures upgraded my knowledge, I developed new skills helpful for analysis from the labs, sailed the South Atlantic for the first time to take measurements, meaningfully dialogued and connected with other participants and instructors, participated in a project on seasonality and drivers of salinity in the Gulf of Guinea, and had tasty food! Since I returned to Nigeria, I have improved the quality of my senior thesis and helped co-solve class tasks using Python to analyze meteorological and oceanographic data. The Summer School was important for me since I plan to pursue a research career in physical oceanography or climate physics. — Oghenekevwe Oghenechovwen, undergraduate in Meteorology and Climate Science, Federal University of Technology Akure

It has been a great experience attending the 2019 Coastal Environment Summer School at the regional Maritime University in Ghana. Personally I think this school was well organised and very successful. I fully enjoyed the one week event because of the interesting lectures, beautiful Lab sessions, boat trip and most especially the project track aspect. Working with Prof. Emily Shroyer and Prof. Andrew Lucas, in the project track Group 1, was amazing. We used Python as our programming language in the study of the seasonal cycle of the atmosphere and ocean surface condition along the Gulf of Guinea. 20 years of Mooring data from the pirata array was used for this purpose. We were able to observe the variation in the seasonal cycle of air temperature, wind stress, short waves, latent heat flux, and sensible heat flux as well as the salinity. It was amazing to see what we could achieve as a team within such a short time! Thanks to Adams, Levi, Bright and Babatunde. I would also like to express my heart-felt appreciation to Prof. Brian Arbic and other facilitators who have shared their experiences during this exciting week. I commend them for their simplicity, enthusiasm and commitment. Without mincing words, I have benefited immensely from this summer school. — Babatunde Adebo PhD., Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Lead City University Nigeria

By means of the summer school l learnt hands on laboratory experiments that were used during Geomorphology and Oceanography lectures. It was about ocean circulation and how the ocean is stratified by means of the physical characteristics. Students were happy and understood it better. They confirmed it was their very first and real laboratory experiment during their 4 yrs at the university. — Mabel Anim PhD., Teaching Associate, Department of Geography and Regional Planning, University of Cape Coast, Ghana

In fact, the opportunity offered me by the organizers of the Summer School 2019, has been so remarkable, educative and informative. It was a great privilege to work on a project team under the Associate Professors Prof. Emily Shroyer and Prof. Andrew Lucas,and not forgetting the brain behind the Python tutorials ‘Paige Martin’. The project team under Prof. Emily Shroyer and Prof. Andrew Lucastogether with my colleagues and with team spirit, we were able to execute our project to a successful end. Our Supervisors were very helpful by giving us the needed assistant when possible. In fact, I am heavily indebted to Professor Brian Arbic and Professor Dimitris Menemenlis and all those who worked hard to bring this vision to a reality. It is my prayer that this dream would not be truncated on the way, but grow from grace to grace until all the participants and the beneficiaries would eventually form a bigger family that will be able to lay a good and formidable platform for the next generation for accelerated development of the Africa Continent and beyond.— Adams Addison Kobla Azameti, MPhil, PGCE, BSc. University of Ghana

This year (2019) was my first time participating in COESSSING and I must admit it was educative and informative. This program helps young scientist like myself to have a in debt understanding of what’s happening in the ocean through practical means such as lab works and visual animation. I just want to use this opportunity to say a very big thank you to the organizers of COESSING for giving me an opportunity to exploring another part of myself through understanding computer language such as python. I hope to grow my interest more in the science specifically ocean modeling to help solve some of the world’s ocean programs.  —Fidelia Esenam Bandua, BSC. Marine Science, University of Ghana, Legon

The 2019 Summer School was very motivating with in-depth information and hands-on experience. Attending COESSING for the first time accorded me the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors with lots of research based ideas and easy to learn approach. I see COESSING as an effort directed toward preparing African scientists for the future and should be strengthened. I learnt a lot especially during the project track, presentations by instructors and the field trip. The training has inspired me to rethink the way I planned to present my PhD research work after being taught new ways of data presentation and interpretation using Python and Ocean Data View software. I believe strongly that I will be able to carry out step-down training in my department and form a group with the view of transferring the knowledge that I have learned from this school. I feel more comfortable now to use the python and ODV software in analyzing my data results. The instructors were also very helpful and easy-going during the training sessions.  I feel privileged to be a part of such an enriching Summer School and I am looking forward to the COESSING 2020 by the special grace of God. I just want to say to the organizers of COESSING well done! — Abani Dani Okoh, PhD Research Student University of Abuja, Nigeria

As a two-time participant of the Oceanography Summer School, I make bold to say that I have returned home on both occasions, more informed and adequately equipped than when I went. Particularly, with the seasoned facilitators and tonnes of relevant scientific materials and softwares available for useful learning. Interestingly, working in a project track this year was for me, a turning point. My Coastal Ecosystems group was culturally dynamic. And our tutor, Dr. Madeline Foster-Martinez, is simply the best. We modelled the trend in global sea-level rise as against accretion and subsidence rates in an Eustuary from year 2000-2100. And we made a presentation. I benefitted immensely from this project and the laboratory sessions. Special thanks to Dr. Paige Martin who also helped out whenever we got stuck with Python notebook. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in the 2019 COESSING and I  wish the organizers and sponsors well in all their endeavours. Thank you. — Ogunsola Oluwadarasimi, Geology Graduate, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Being a science student myself, I was very opportune to be selected for COESSING 2019. I learned about different physical and biogeochemical processes shaping the oceanic environment. Data analysis was another area where scientific tools are used to take and analyze data in dissimilar ways. I was also glad to learn how to use Python for results during the school. I urge everyone to apply in the upcoming COESSING 2020. — Clement Tubu, BSc Biological Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

I had an amazing time helping teach at COESSING 2019 at Regional Maritime University in Accra. The participants from all over West Africa were so welcoming and engaged in every topic, so teaching was fun and rewarding. Having the chance to teach to such a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives that are different from mine was an experience unlike any other I’ve had, and I learned just as much from the participants as I hope they learned from me. Being part of this fantastic summer school was definitely an enriching experience for me that opened my eyes to a new part of the world and gave me the opportunity to meet and teach amazing people! — Jackie Wrage, PhD Student, University of Michigan

Being able to travel to Accra, Ghana, to serve as a resource person during the fifth meeting of the Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School in Ghana (COESSING) was an experience that expanded my worldview and will continue to shape my perspective on issues of diversity and access to resources/education in marine science in the developing world for many years to come. The high levels of enthusiasm and engagement I saw from the west-African participants for the duration of the school were nothing short of awe-striking and inspiring. The school lended itself well to a space where learners and instructors could engage on an interpersonal level, as well as a space where west-Afrcian participants from Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, and Benin were able to connect with each other, forging friendships with the potential for professional  research-based relationships. I feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to support COESSING 2019, and I am excited to see the continuation of COESSING’s influence in generating discussion around access to resources and education in oceanographic and environmental sciences in west-Africa. — Madelyn Cook, PhD Student, University of Michigan

2018 School Testimonials

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The 2018 summer school was just great. The introduction of a project based track was a great initiative on the part of the organisers. Personally I got the opportunity to learn some programming languages which included python, matlab and also a numeric model (Regional Ocean Modelling System). I also had the opportunity to learn from and connect with different people from different countries. I can’t wait for COESSING 2019! –Michael Kwame-Biney, Mphil Student, University of Ghana

COESSING 2018 has really been awesome and its of great delight that I have gotten this opportunity to participate in it. This was my first time and I enjoyed every bit of it. My horizons broadened during the summer school, I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Dimitris Menemenlis and other participants on the Gulf of Guinea MITgcm/ECCO configuration. I learnt how to use some Unix (Linux) OS terminal commands to set up the Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model (MITgcm). The training, knowledge and practical skills acquired during the summer school have given me the tools needed to propel me in my research and use what I have learnt to make an impact and a difference in my environment. I thank the organizers of the school summer for this wonderful package brought to Africa and I look forward to the next summer school. — Patrick Dwomfuor, PhD Student, University of Ghana

COESSING, 2018 was my first international workshop experience outside my home country. It was a week of super-loaded, excellent and exciting experience. I followed the Project Track- Data Science. My dedication met commitment from the instructors and within few days I started learning the PYTHON language. At the end of the workshop I was able to plot SID data using Python. COESSSING exposed us to a multi – disciplinary experience in Oceanography, and I must confess that a part of me now loves the sea… Thus, with the introductory lectures I may consider research in the field in the nearest future. Part of my take-away from the workshop was that my network and connections has been enhanced, hence I have more access to academics, scientific data and tools. Therefore, as I look forward to a brighter future and more exciting experience in life, I hope I can someday give back to this great initiative, because every student deserves access to such a great experience. COESSING, 2018 is a success… and to the sponsor(s) and facilitators- keep illuminating the path, for it leads to greatness! –-Mumin Olatunji Oladipo, PhD Student, University of Ilorin-Nigeria.

Being a part of COESSING has been a wonderful experience. This program provides the opportunity for young scientists  and established scientists to acquire tools to be engaged in the scientific community. COESSING has reinforced what it means to be a global scientist. Regardless of discipline, it is our job to teach and share our scientific findings in addition to investigating and exploring the natural world.  As a young scientist I am looking forward to continuing to help build capacity and opportunity in places that have been neglected. People of color need to be represented in the scientific community and global issues require people all around the world to work together. The most important takeaway I learned from this program is that it is possible. —Nefertiti Smith, Undergraduate in Marine and Environmental Science, Hampton University

I am very happy that I was able to participate in COESSING 2018. As a graduate student researcher, I am always happy to talk about my research but I was even happier for this opportunity because I got to share my passion for science with scientists from West Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali) in Ghana. I had a great experience exchanging ideas with the participants as we spoke about natural resources, resource extraction, and about how chemistry is used to find ore deposits. I was able to help the participants see the connections between resource extraction and their daily lives, and to urge them to help get the next generation of scientists excited about science when they go back to their countries and communities. While I really enjoyed my interactions with the participants during my lecture and lab, my most enjoyable experience at COESSING 2018 was watching one of the participants present passionately about learning to use the Python programming language to visualize his data. —Nikita La Cruz, PhD candidate, University of Michigan

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2017 School Testimonials

Thanks for your response to the needs of scientists in the developing world. You have left us stronger, more equipped, and more exposed to knowledge in oceanography than we were before the summer school. You have indeed increased and developed my academic skill and capacity building. You have given me wings to fly and to embrace a new approach in my academic career. I have been enriched, fulfilled, and I promise to impart the knowledge to all my students, both graduate and undergraduate, and also encourage other researchers to key in to the subsequent summer school programs. You have equipped my Nigerian students for better performance and injected us with knowledge that will forever strengthen our ability. Above all, the Oceanography Summer School 2017 is the best academic experience that I have ever had throughout the 27 years of my academic career. — Prof. Rachel Toyosi Idowu, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Summer school is simply amazing and it is a great thing that I have gotten the opportunity to partake in it. I have been there three times and I have enjoyed and learnt new things each time. I love the lab works, they gave in-depth understanding to the theory each time and I am glad to say that every summer school gives me a greater push and exposure towards my academic career. The mentorship is great, coupled with the experience gives me confidence in my research and teaching. I pray for another summer school next year for I believe there are pots load of knowledge to be given. —

Lily Lisa Yevugah, KNUST PhD Student

I would love to acknowledge the University of Michigan (UM-Ann Arbor) and Regional Maritime University (RMU), for the organization and conduct of COESS 2017.  The lectures, field samplings (the small boat trip) and labs were thorough, well-organized and inspiring.  Moreover, the course materials and other resources of COESS 2017 were very entertaining and educative. Frankly, I enjoyed the visual presentations, lab sections, Ocean modeling sections (using Matlab), etc. My interaction with students, faculty, and experts boosted my understanding of Oceanography and Environmental subjects momentously. Moreover, the warm reception received and hospitality provided by the organizers are memorable. I will surely recommend COESS to all my comrades, Students, and friends in Liberia and abroad. Thank you all for the fantastic job done. I, myself, would love to attend the COESS again in the future if given the opportunity. — Adolphus M. G. D. Gleekia, Senior Lecturer/Mining Engineer, University of Liberia

My third participation in the summer school came with no regrets. The field trip on the tugboat ignited more my interest in oceanography since it exposed me to real time methods and measurements. The results compared to existing chartered depths makes me trust my chart onboard even more as a Seafarer. Interacting with other participants and instructors together with the well structured lectures and labs gave me more knowledge and insight into my research project. Thank you for the opportunity and the condusive environment to interact and share ideas with established and upcoming researchers. My dream is for the summer school to grow bigger and better as always. —

Richmond Kennedy Quarcoo, B.S. RMU 2013

Summer school 2017 was a memorable experience! The 2017 school has been absolutely amazing. The program keeps on getting better and interesting. It was incredibly inspiring and full of brilliant lecturers. Personally, aside from the knowledge acquired on oil and gas field developments, the ocean and our environments, I’ve been imparted on graduate school application procedures and  by the special grace of God, I’ve been admitted to the University of Toulouse and IFP school in France for my Masters Degree. I highly recommend the school to all maritime and interested students since you get the opportunity to network with students in Africa and the United States of America. — Michael Opare, BSc. Computer Engineering, PgDip. Oil and Gas Engineering

I feel incredibly fortunate to have participated in this year’s summer school. It’s clear the program strengthens the connection between Ghana and the US (as well as Nigeria and Liberia!), and getting to be a part of that was fantastic.  I had the privilege of co-presenting with Lily Lisa Yevugah, a graduate student from KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology). I thoroughly enjoyed working with her and learning about research across Ghana, as well as sharing my research experiences in the US. We have a lot to learn from each other! The summer school was an action-packed week filled with great conversations on everything from the international problem of plastic waste to our favorite programming languages. I look forward to keeping these conversations going! — Madeline Foster-Martinez, PhD Student, University of California, Berkeley

The opportunity to participate as a graduate student instructor (GSI) for the 2017 Coastal Ocean Environment Summer School (COESS) at the Regional Maritime University (Accra, Ghana) was a marvelous and unique experience that cannot easily be replicated in “traditional” classroom environments. The combination of hands-on lab activities and comprehensive lectures kept the participants (including myself) engrossed in the topics discussed. From a graduate student instructor perspective, this is an ideal teaching and learning environment that I wish were more commonplace in academia. COESS was certainly the highlight of my instructing career, and I hope to return next year and beyond! — Brian Konecke, PhD Student, University of Michigan

I feel so fortunate to have gotten the opportunity to be a teaching assistant at this summer school! From gaining exposure to the wide range of topics in oceanography, to helping teach the basics of scientific computer programming, to interacting with leading faculty in oceanography-related fields, I now feel more enriched in my own oceanography education. But the best part of the school for me, was the personal connection I was able to make with the West African attendees. I thoroughly enjoyed conversing with attendees, and learning about our differing perspectives, both in academia and beyond. There is so much we can learn from one another, and I hope that this summer school will continue to grow and pave the way for more such scientific collaborations in the future! — Paige Martin, PhD Student, University of Michigan

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2016 School Testimonials

From Ghanaian participants:

“The Summer School has been and continues to be a great experience. It provided the platform for an appreciation of our environment and the dynamics that come to play, both at micro and macro levels, of physio-chemical, biological, geological and  mathematical orientations and interactions. As a future researcher and academic, it has helped me better comprehend the advancements and inter-disciplinary works geared towards understanding and inputs in making our environment sustainable and safer. I look forward to more episodes of the summer school  sessions and future collaborative works.” –Kwame Nyamekye Jr., KNUST student

“Besides the Summer School being well structured and organized the atmosphere was conducive and friendly.  I appreciate the opportunity to meet the rising generation of educational scholars and to spend time with established scholars in the field readily available and accessible.  The research talks  and getting feedback on my own research was fulfilling.  The advice given was very constructive and positive.  Indeed, it was a very valuable and memorable experience.” –Richmond Kennedy Quarcoo, B.S., RMU, 2013

“My research work is centered on conducting stock assessment of some commercially important seabreams from our Ghanaian waters. I wanted to find out how oceanographic data could be linked to the dynamics of this fish stock. I’m considering looking at sea surface temperature, chlorophyll a and salinity. My problem was how to get assess to such data. The summer school made me realize that I could get whatever information I needed from satellite data and didn’t have to go through long protocols or procedures to acquire them from the institutions responsible for such data in Ghana.”  –Michelle Clottey, UCC student

“The summer school helped me see better the link between fisheries biology and environment data, and concepts of stratification and density gradients became far more easily understood. I have been challenged to make use of satellite imagery and data to make scientifically sound inferences and come up with accurate predictions. I would love to return.” –Jemimah Etornam Kassah, UCC student

The 2016 Summer School held in the University of Ghana has been a great experience and very helpful. Lectures and well prepared power point presentations on coastal ocean topics helped to elaborate some important concepts of the coastal ocean. Had the chance to work with diverse students from different academic disciplines on the practical field trip and exciting lab works that greatly enhanced my knowledge and skills. I loved the opportunity to meet new friends and establish a great relationship with leading international scholars, faculty, researchers and professionals. I am really thankful for this great experience and I look forward to more summer schools. —Awuah Albert, Univ. Ghana student    

From University of Michigan research assistants:

“My two weeks in Ghana assisting with the summer school and completing independent research on electronic waste recycling at Agbogbloshie was incredible and life-changing. Learning about oceanography topics from leading international scholars during the school as well as meeting and speaking with Ghanaian students, faculty, and professionals greatly enhanced my knowledge of environmental subjects.  I am very thankful for this great experience!” –Anne Canavati, University of Michigan, B.A.

“Working and learning in Ghana was wonderful. I enjoyed assisting at the summer school – the professors, staff, students were very nice and welcoming.  I had a great time also researching electronic waste. It was great being able to go in the field, apply knowledge and meet with various government agencies, non-profits, and other entities to come up with a solution to the electronic waste recovery that benefits everyone. The situation in Agbogbloshie and electronic waste in general is complex and requires a lot of support. I am glad to have had the opportunity to take part in a project that can help people in the future. My time in Ghana is one of the most memorable and important events I have been a part of; because of it I have gained lifelong connections and experiences that I will never forget.” –Jayson Toweh, University of Michigan student

“I had an amazing time assisting at the summer school. The lectures were quite interesting and the labs provided a more hands on approach to learning. Additionally, I was surrounded by incredibly intelligent faculty and students from whom I learned a lot. While in Ghana I was also completing a research project on jatropha biodiesel. Being at the school helped me make connections for my project as well as deepened my understanding of natural resource management issues in Ghana. Overall, my time in Ghana was wonderful!” –Liz Oliphant, University of Michigan student 

“The opportunity to have traveled to Ghana as a part of Brian and Adam’s team was something that I will always be thankful for. Being a part of the classroom dynamic, performing our own research, and experiencing the wonderful culture and people of Ghana allowed this trip to be as successful and positive as it could have been. I couldn’t be happier that I got to experience everything that we did and saw during our stay in Ghana.” –Jess Hicks, University of Michigan, B.S. 

“The opportunity to study in Ghana was tremendous. Working alongside my Ghanaian peers toward a better understanding of the country’s environmental challenges made it abundantly clear that no sustainability issue exists in a vacuum. The complexities of our planet, our politics, and our economies link us together – even when an ocean apart. Though I had heard such sentiments in many lectures at UM, seeing these connections first hand has changed my outlook on the world and our environment. Also, the fufu was excellent.” –Erich Eberhard, University of Michigan student

From anonymous feedback:

“The summer school was good and very essential.”

“I enjoyed the diversity of topics treated and the inclusion of practicals to enhance better understanding of the subject matter.”

“The laboratory experiments were superb.”

“The diversity of topics treated and the inclusion of practicals to enhance better understanding of the subject matter was great.”

“I really enjoyed every bit of the summer school. The field trip was great as well as the lab sessions. The course instructors were very friendly and lovely.”

“I really enjoyed the school and will be very happy if more of these are organized in different schools.”

“The lab sections were practical and interesting.”

“Overall, it was a great school and I really enjoyed it. The lab sessions and practicality of the school helped clear some abstract things I still had in mind and made me understand better.”

“The school has been enlightening and inspirational.”