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Schedule a meeting now! Get advice from our admission expert Katharina. Request a spot in our meeting hub and we will call you back!
Refer a friend - Save 100€! Refer a friend, enroll together for this summer school, and save both 100 Euro! Refer a friend!
Schedule a meeting now! Get advice from our admission expert Katharina. Request a spot in our meeting hub and we will call you back!
Refer a friend - Save 100€! Refer a friend, enroll together for this summer school, and save both 100 Euro! Refer a friend!
Vision & Innovations
Students' Findings from the 2024 Upskill Study’s Sport and Environment Summer Course
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Upskill Study’s Sport and Environment Summer Course in Bali 2024 brought together a group of passionate international students, each eager to explore the intersection of sports, culture, and environmental sustainability. Over the course of a month, these six students engaged in various activities, experiencing Bali's unique ecosystem themselves while confronting pressing environmental challenges. Their final reports reflect a deep understanding of the issues at hand, as well as innovative solutions that can contribute to the preservation of Bali's natural beauty.
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Jorja: Advocating for Coral Reef Preservation
Jorja, a student from the University of Kent, delved into the environmental aspects of scuba diving in Bali. Her visit to a Coral Reef Preservation Organization in Pemuteran allowed her to witness firsthand the coral reef restoration efforts using Biorock technology. While she appreciated the economic benefits of tourism, Jorja was acutely aware of its negative impact on the environment, particularly on coral reefs. Her proposed action steps include banning single-use plastics, supporting beach clean-ups, and improving waste management through government and community collaboration. Jorja emphasized the need for educating tourists on sustainable practices to ensure the long-term preservation of Bali’s marine ecosystems.
Aadam: Tackling Waste Pollution Through Sport
Also from Kent University, Aadam participated in the Upskill summer course and focused on the pervasive issue of waste pollution in Bali. Struck by the contrast between the island's natural beauty and the littered beaches, Aadam proposed organizing friendly competitions among divers to collect trash, incentivizing participation with rewards, and repurposing waste into useful items. His experience underscored the urgent need for better waste management systems and the importance of turning awareness into action. Aadam's proposals aim to foster collaboration between local communities, dive operators, and the government to protect Bali's environment.
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Kate: Promoting Sustainable Tourism on a Hiking Trail
Kate Arnol, from the University of Technology Sydney, observed the environmental challenges faced by a hiking trail in Lemukih. Damage to the natural pathway, litter, and a lack of infrastructure were among the issues she identified. Kate proposed actionable steps such as building a clear pathway using bamboo, increasing waste management efforts, and encouraging local vendors to adopt eco-friendly practices. She also suggested leveraging social media to raise awareness and funds for the trail, with the goal of balancing the preservation of Bali’s natural beauty with the promotion of sustainable tourism.
Laura: A Passion for Coral Reef Preservation
A participant from Australia, Laura Boll had her perspectives on coral reef preservation deepened during her time in Bali. Her scuba diving experience with the Biorock Indonesia team in Pemuteran exposed her to the harsh realities of coral damage. Laura's report highlighted the threats to Indonesia’s coral reefs, including destructive fishing practices, climate change, and unsustainable tourism. She advocates for sustainable practices in water sports, public education on coral reef protection, and stricter regulations to safeguard these vital ecosystems. Laura’s experience in Bali has inspired her to promote sustainability in sports, both locally and globally.
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Laura: Sustainable Fitness Practices at Prominent Gym Center
Laura Martin, another student from the University of Kent, explored the environmental impact of her fitness journey at one of Bali’s prominent Gym Centers. She noted both the sustainable practices in place, such as the use of natural lighting and towel rentals, and areas for improvement, like the gym’s artificial grass and limited online presence. Laura’s suggestions for further minimizing the gym’s environmental impact include implementing motion-sensor lights, installing solar panels, and forming partnerships with local farmers for composting. Her personal commitment to making more sustainable choices in her fitness routine reflects the broader goal of promoting eco-friendly practices in everyday life.
Berry Fox: Enhancing the Surfing Environment in Bali
Berry Fox's month-long experience in Bali was marked by her deep connection to surfing. She highlighted the environmental aspects of the sport, including the impact of wave size, tide levels, and weather conditions. Berry also raised concerns about the lack of proper first aid equipment on local beaches, which poses risks to surfers. Her proposals include promoting surfing etiquette, improving first aid education, and supporting local businesses. Additionally, Berry emphasized the importance of addressing waste issues on beaches through community clean-up initiatives and incentives for surfers, aiming to create a safer and more sustainable surfing culture in Bali.
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The 2024 Upskill Sport and Environment Summer Course in Bali provided these students with a unique opportunity to engage with the island's environment in meaningful ways. Their reports reflect a deep understanding of the complex relationship between sports and sustainability, as well as a commitment to preserving Bali's natural beauty for future generations. Through their innovative proposals and personal reflections, these students have demonstrated the power of education and collaboration in addressing environmental challenges, leaving a lasting impact on both the local community and the broader global conversation on sustainability.
By Billy Bagus
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