Gulf of Guinea Ocean
Sciences Summer School
Build ocean science capacity, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and advance research to understand and address environmental challenges in the Gulf of Guinea
About the GGOSSS
​The Gulf of Guinea Ocean Sciences Summer School (GGOSSS) is an annual summer school dedicated to oceanographic and environmental studies for students and early-career scientists from French-speaking countries of the Gulf of Guinea. The workshop aims to expand opportunities within data-driven ocean science, offering a platform to explore future research directions and foster collaborative networks among attendees.The program will enhance scientific knowledge in oceanography, focusing on a range of critical parameters such as sea level, temperature, salinity, biogeochemistry, and ocean circulation. It will also foster international collaboration in addressing the region's increasing vulnerability to climate change and environmental degradation. The school will bring together leading experts from around the world to offer hands-on training, workshops, and seminars, empowering participants to better understand and address the pressing oceanographic challenges faced by the Gulf of Guinea. ​​
The Gulf of Guinea Ocean Sciences Summer School (GGOSSS) will be hosted annually in various French-speaking countries within the Gulf of Guinea, with each year’s location rotating to maximize accessibility, engage local communities, and address the unique coastal and marine challenges of each host nation. The inaugural summer school will take place at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Dschang in Cameroon from August 25-29, 2025. Situated in a highland region, this unique setting reflects GGOSSS’s commitment to expanding ocean science education beyond traditional coastal and urban areas. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Background​
The Gulf of Guinea, along Africa's west coast, faces significant challenges from climate change, particularly rising sea levels and changes in key oceanographic parameters such as temperature, salinity, and currents. Its predominantly low-lying coastlines make the region highly vulnerable, yet oceanographic studies remain underdeveloped. Despite initiatives like the Master’s program in Benin and the COESSING summer school in Nigeria and Ghana, French-speaking countries in the region lack sufficient resources and training opportunities in ocean sciences. This gap highlights the urgent need for specialized education and collaboration to address climate change’s impact on the region.
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Marine resources such as fisheries, oil, and gas are central to the Gulf of Guinea's economy but are increasingly threatened by climate change and environmental degradation. Strengthening local expertise in oceanographic research is crucial to safeguarding these resources and addressing broader environmental challenges. An online training initiative has revealed gaps in students’ data analysis skills, underscoring the need for enhanced access to education, mentoring, and technical support, particularly in French-speaking countries. Building capacity in oceanographic sciences is essential for both regional resilience and contributions to global efforts in combating climate change.
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To address these needs, a proposed summer school will offer hands-on training in oceanographic techniques, mentorship from international experts, and opportunities for collaboration. Participants will gain proficiency in advanced technologies like satellite remote sensing and oceanographic modeling, while also learning to translate scientific knowledge into sustainable practices and policies. By fostering local expertise, strengthening scientific networks, and empowering future leaders, the program aims to drive sustainable development in the Gulf of Guinea and support global ocean conservation efforts.
Objectives
The proposed summer school aims to achieve the following objectives:
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Enhance Oceanographic Knowledge and Skills
Provide hands-on training in oceanographic techniques and data analysis, including the use of advanced technologies such as satellite remote sensing, oceanographic modeling, and in-situ data collection. -
Build Local Expertise and Capacity in Ocean Sciences
Strengthen the technical and research capacity of students and professionals from French-speaking countries in the Gulf of Guinea by equipping them with modern tools and techniques. -
Promote collaboration and knowledge exchange
Facilitate collaboration between participants and international experts through mentoring programs and joint projects, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and establishing a strong scientific network. -
Promote the Translation of Science into Policy and Action
Emphasize the importance of applying scientific knowledge to develop effective policies and sustainable practices. The program will prepare participants to advocate for and implement solutions that protect marine resources, mitigate climate change impacts, and promote the sustainable development of coastal communities in the Gulf of Guinea. -
Support Sustainable Development
Contribute to the sustainable development of the Gulf of Guinea by training local experts who can address the region's pressing environmental issues.