Ocean professionals, researchers, students, policymakers, and community leaders interested in advancing collaborative ocean solutions can now enroll in the Co-Design for the Ocean Decade online course, a global learning initiative developed through a partnership between the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO’s OceanTeacher Global Academy and the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT).

The self-paced training is designed to strengthen the capacity of individuals and organizations to develop inclusive and collaborative approaches that support sustainable ocean action under the framework of the United Nations Ocean Decade.

About the Course

As ocean challenges become increasingly complex, effective solutions require cooperation among diverse stakeholders. This course introduces participants to co-design principles and practical methods that can help transform ideas into impactful ocean initiatives.

Available online until 31 December 2026, the course allows learners from around the world to study at their own pace while gaining practical knowledge on collaborative planning, stakeholder engagement, partnership building, and project sustainability.

What Participants Will Learn

The training explores the foundations of co-design and its role in supporting sustainable ocean development. Participants will gain insights into:

• Understanding co-design principles and methodologies
• The role of co-design within the UN Ocean Decade
• Building shared visions and project objectives
• Identifying and engaging key stakeholders
• Creating effective and equitable partnerships
• Designing stakeholder engagement strategies
• Developing sustainable ocean initiatives
• Monitoring project impact and long-term outcomes
• Strengthening collaboration between communities, researchers, and policymakers

Course Modules

The program is divided into six learning modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Co-Design and the Ocean Decade

Module 2: Core Elements and Processes of Co-Design

Module 3: Developing Shared Visions and Goals

Module 4: Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement

Module 5: Building Effective Partnerships

Module 6: Sustainability and Long-Term Impact

Learning Format

The course is delivered entirely online and can be completed according to each participant’s schedule.

Duration: Approximately 18 hours in total

Study Commitment: Around 3 hours per week

Language: English

The training includes:

• Interactive learning materials
• Recorded lectures
• Reflection exercises
• Practical assignments
• Knowledge assessments and quizzes

Certification

Participants who successfully complete all course requirements will receive an official certificate.

To qualify for certification, learners must:

• Complete all modules and lessons
• Achieve at least 70% in each quiz
• Complete the course evaluation survey

Technical Requirements

Participants will need:

• A computer, laptop, or tablet
• Reliable internet access
• A modern web browser
• Basic digital literacy skills
• Ability to access online learning platforms and digital documents

For the 2026 intake, the enrollment key is:

Codesign26

Participation is completely free of charge.

Key Information

Course: Co-Design for the Ocean Decade

Format: Self-paced online learning

Duration: Approximately 18 hours

Cost: Free

Language: English

Enrollment Period: Open through 31 December 2026

Certificate: Available upon successful completion

UNESCO encourages participation from individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented communities, to help foster inclusive and collaborative ocean action worldwide.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply now.