2025 IOC-UNESCO travel grants to attend the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) and the One Ocean Science (OOS) Congress.

If you're an African Early Career Ocean Professional (ECOP) eager to engage with global experts and contribute to ocean sustainability discussions, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO), through its Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), is offering travel grants to attend two pivotal events in 2025: the Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) and the One Ocean Science (OOS) Congress.

Programme Summary

• Location: Nice, France

• Offered By: IOC-UNESCO through IOCAFRICA

• Target Group: African Early Career Professionals (ECOPs)

• Fields of Focus: Ocean science, marine policy, governance, and related fields

• Grant Value and Coverage: Fully funded travel, accommodation, and subsistence

• Duration: Duration of the conferences

• Application Deadline: March 31, 2025

• Start Date: June 3, 2025 (OOS Congress); June 9, 2025 (UNOC3)

• Eligible to: African ECOPs meeting the eligibility criteria

Programme Overview

The Third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), scheduled from June 9 to 13, 2025, aims to accelerate global initiatives toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the conference will focus on science-driven policies, financial commitments, and enhancing partnerships across various sectors. Preceding UNOC3, the One Ocean Science (OOS) Congress will take place from June 3 to 6, 2025, serving as a foundational scientific event addressing critical topics such as ocean health, climate change impacts, conservation strategies, and sustainable use of marine resources.

Travel Grants' Benefits and Coverage

1. Financial Support: Fully funded travel, accommodation, and subsistence for selected African ECOPs to attend UNOC3 and the OOS Congress.

2. Professional Development: Engage directly in high-level ocean science and policy discussions, enhancing skills and knowledge.

3. Networking Opportunities: Connect with global experts, institutions, and decision-makers, strengthening international collaborations.

4. Representation: Ensure African perspectives and expertise are actively represented in shaping the future of ocean sustainability.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Based in Africa or affiliated with an African institution.

2. Background in ocean science, marine policy, governance, or a related field.

3. Confirmed registration for the OOS Congress and/or accreditation for UNOC3.

4. Proficiency in English and/or French (the working languages of UNOC3 and OOS Congress).

5. Valid passport and eligibility for a French visa (flights will be booked only after visa confirmation).

6. Availability to fully participate in conference sessions and related activities.

7. Commitment to submitting a post-conference report and a recorded testimonial to the IOCAFRICA Secretariat within a specified timeframe after the event.

Application Procedure

Applicants must submit the following documents as a single merged PDF file:

1. Updated CV.

2. Copy of the most recent degree certificate.

3. Motivation Letter, detailing the following:

• The event(s) you plan to attend (OOS Congress and/or UNOC3).

• Your specific role at the event (e.g., presenter, panelist, participant).

• How participation will contribute to your professional growth as an ECOP.

• Proof of accreditation for UNOC3 and/or registration confirmation for the OOS Congress.

4. Recommendation Letter from a supervisor, mentor, or senior colleague in the ocean science and governance field, confirming:

• The applicant’s active involvement in ocean science, research, or governance.

• Their potential contribution to and benefit from attending UNOC3 and the OOS Congress.

• Alignment with the goals of the Ocean Decade.

Submission & Deadline:

All applications must be submitted by March 31, 2025, with the subject “Application for UNOC3/OSS Congress Travel Grant” to [oceans.nairobi@unesco.org].

This initiative offers African ECOPs a unique opportunity to showcase their work, engage with leading experts, and strengthen Africa’s voice in global ocean governance. Don’t miss this chance to contribute meaningfully to the future of ocean sustainability.

📂ℹ️ For more details, read more about the event on the official website & refer to the Call for Applications PDF document.