Ocean Literacy and Science Clubs: fostering ocean literacy and climate action in Brazilian education

Developing a generation of students who are critical, proactive, and integrate science with citizenship is essential for driving societal change to combat climate change and promote ocean sustainability. In alignment with global educational movements like Blue Schools and public policies supporting a Blue Curriculum, Brazil has established the Ocean Literacy and Science Clubs. These clubs, supported by scholarships from the Brazilian government (CNPq), consist of students and teachers engaged in extracurricular, interdisciplinary activities that advocate for sustainability and ocean literacy within their communities. In 2024, fifteen Ocean Literacy and Science Clubs were active across Brazil, involving over 100 scholarship-supported members. These clubs provide an interactive platform where students and teachers collaboratively explore oceanic issues and climate action, cultivating a community-based understanding of environmental challenges. Looking ahead to 2025, the initiative will expand to incorporate discussions on "Women in STEM" alongside ocean literacy, promoting gender inclusivity in science and fostering diverse perspectives within ocean-related fields. This presentation will showcase firsthand accounts from club participants, highlighting the transformations and opportunities that the Ocean Literacy and Science Clubs have brought into their lives. These include participation in the Brazilian Ocean Olympiad and the Science Fair held during Brazil's National Science and Technology Week. Through these clubs, students are not only educated about the ocean but also empowered to become change agents, contributing to a broader movement toward sustainable development and climate resilience.