Tourism is growing fast in Raja Ampat, so is the need for local dive guides. More and more tourism operators are looking to employ Papuans to encourage the local economy but so far, only few people have the appropriate dive training.
Since the creation of Papua Explorers, the Eco-resort and its foundation have set as a priority to train and employ local people, starting by the surrounding villages. So far, 20 people received dive training and 80% of our dive and boat crew are Papuans. They are directly involved in the SEA Centre’s conservation and education activities, building ownership for the conservation of Raja Ampat. In addition, the SEA Centre offers twice a week English training to Papua Explorers staff to support them in building their carrier.
This year, the SEA Centre is taking e a step forward by launching a full time 6 months internship for 8 local candidates. We are aiming to teach them not only how to become a professional and responsible dive guide, but also an experienced conservationist and a tourism professional. The students will learn how to build and maintain artificial reef, monitor coral reefs and marine biodiversity, and raise awareness about marine environment. The training will include theory and naturalist lessons as well as an extensive practical and field training.
We will support our graduates in finding a job by using our network of resorts, liveaboards and homestays. Our objective is not only to provide the tourism industry in Raja Ampat with local dive guide, but with autonomous conservationists that will spread good practices and raise awareness for the sustainable development of Raja Ampat.
Dive Training
Train the candidates from Open Water to Rescue
Internship at our 5 star PADI Dive Centre
Train professional and reliable dive guides
Environmental Training
Provide ecology and naturalist courses
Practical training in SEA Centre programmes like coral reef rehabilitation and monitoring, manta ray monitoring, children education, community development.
Making conservationists out of fishermen
English Class
English lessons and communication training
Practice with our international guests
Building communication and customer service skills
Training ambassadors of Raja Ampat
Supporting the sustainable development of tourism industry
How can you support ?
With 300$ you can contribute to one month of full-time training for a Papuan student to become a professional conservation dive guide. You will receive monthly news about the training and the evolution of our trainees’ team. If you want to support a student for its whole training, please select the 6 months option and you will receive a personalized letter from your student along with its final certificate.
Make a difference, changing one life at a time.