KUFOS celebrated World Oceans Day with Exhibition, Skit, and Expert Talks
Kochi, June 11, 2025 – The Department of Marine Biosciences of the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), under the Faculty of Ocean Science and Technology (FOST), celebrated World Oceans Day on June 11, 2025, with a series of engaging, educational, and awareness-driven events held at the university campus.
The celebrations were inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) A. Biju Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of KUFOS, who also delivered the Ocean Day address, highlighting the university’s ongoing efforts and commitment to ocean sustainability, conservation, and education.
An invited talk was delivered by Dr. Ranith R., Scientist at the Nansen Environmental Research Centre India (NERCI). His presentation focused on the current challenges and innovations in marine science, drawing attention to the role of young researchers in driving ocean sustainability.
A theme-based exhibition was organized as part of the programme, showcasing marine biodiversity, ocean conservation strategies, and sustainable marine practices. The exhibits, including posters, displays, and interactive models prepared by students and faculty from the Marine Biology division, helped raise awareness among the university community and visitors.
Adding a creative and impactful dimension, the M.Sc. Marine Biology students performed a skit on recent oil spills and their ecological consequences entitled “Dark Water – Silent Cries”. The performance powerfully depicted the environmental impact of a fictional shipwreck—MSC Elsa—through expressive dance, narration, and moving monologues.
With dancers dressed as the ocean (in blue) and oil (in black/grey), the skit opened with scenes of harmony, disrupted by the chaos of an oil spill. Realistic audio effects and choreography brought the disaster to life, portraying the struggle of marine life amid pollution.
In the second act, sea creatures—phytoplankton, sardines, coral reefs, polychaetes, and marine birds—shared heart-wrenching testimonies of survival, loss, and ecological imbalance. Their stories emphasized the deep interconnection of marine ecosystems and the urgency of conservation. Ending on a hopeful note, the skit called for action and restoration, with a promise from future generations to protect ocean life. The performance left a lasting message on the importance of sustainability and care for marine ecosystems.
Dr. S Suresh Kumar (Director of Research) presided over the function. Dr. Sajeevan M K (Director of Extension) and Dr. V N Sanjeevan (Prof. Chair CARMC, KUFOS) felicitated the programme.
The World Ocean Day events were coordinated by Dr. V.P. Limna Mol and Dr. Nevin K.G., with enthusiastic participation from students, researchers, and faculty. The celebrations reflected KUFOS’s strong commitment to promoting ocean literacy, environmental awareness, and sustainable marine development.