Fostering the Next Generation of Reef Protectors
At RRFB, we focus on engaging our community and educating as many people as possible about the importance of coral reefs and the need for their protection and restoration. We provide immersive educational experiences that combine theory with hands-on practice. Our activities are designed to highlight the significance of coral reef ecosystems while actively involving participants in restoration efforts.
Learn. Protect. Restore.
The aim of our integrated educational programs is to spark a passion for marine conservation in people of all ages. By highlighting the importance of coral reef restoration and conservation, we strive to empower future stewards of our oceans.
We work with a variety of local schools and youth programs on Bonaire, including MBO, Liseo, Jong Bonaire, Stinapa Jr. Rangers, and more. We also routinely host University students, dive groups, and other visitors who want to know more about what we do. Keep reading to learn more about these programs and find out how to set up an educational session below!
Interested in a tailored learning experience?
We understand that every group has unique needs and learning goals. That’s why we offer tailored educational programs for various age groups and educational levels. Whether you’re a school group, college class, or community organization, we’ll customize our activities to suit your specific requirements.
Contact education@reefrenewalbonaire.org to inquire about educational opportunities!
Local School Programs
We work closely with local schools like Liseo Boneiru and Middelbaar BeroepsOnderwijs (MBO) to bring coral reef education directly into the classroom and students to the ocean. From multi-day education programs to snorkel tours and R&D workshops, our goal is to connect students with the reefs in their own backyard and empower them to protect what they love.
Visiting Student & Dive Groups
We welcome international schools, universities, dive groups and educational travel programs for custom presentations, snorkel tours, and reef restoration experiences. Whether it’s a one-day visit or part of a longer program, we create meaningful, hands-on learning moments for students and divers from around the world.
Community Education & Events
We’re passionate about engaging the broader Bonairean community through festivals, open days, and island-wide events like Lac Bay Day, Festival di Awa, and Discover the Bay. Our interactive activities are designed to educate, inspire, and make coral restoration accessible to everyone, kids, families, and lifelong learners.
Virtual Learning & Media Outreach
We believe learning shouldn’t stop at the shoreline. Our virtual presentations, webinars, and panel discussions allow us to reach audiences far beyond Bonaire. We also collaborate with journalists, students, and media creators to spread awareness and provide educational insights through storytelling and interviews.
Monday Public Presentations
Every Monday at 5:30 PM, we welcome locals and visitors to join our free public reef presentation in the breakfast area at Buddy Dive Resort. These sessions are open to all and offer an inspiring look into the threats facing coral reefs and what’s being done to restore them here on Bonaire. It’s a great entry point for anyone interested in marine conservation, whether you’re a diver, snorkeler, or simply curious about the ocean.
Local Traineeship Program
We’re proud to be expanding our impact by involving the local community through our traineeship program. This initiative gives young Bonairians the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in coral restoration and marine conservation. Our current trainee, Ibrahim, works with us after school and is actively involved in all aspects of our work.
“Working with RRFB has given me a new perspective of the island I grew up on.”
Want to hear more from him? Read his full story in his blog post.
