The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has launched a series of awareness sessions and guide examinations across South Ari Atoll for guides working in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), with the first session held in Alifu Dhaalu Maamigili.

A total of 22 participants attended the opening session, including 16 guides who completed the SAMPA Guide Examination. Three additional sessions are scheduled this week to give more guides working in the protected area an opportunity to sit the examination.

The ministry stated that SAMPA guides accompany visitors to the protected area, explain the regulations designed to protect its marine environment and help ensure the safety of guests. The awareness sessions and examinations are intended to strengthen guides' understanding of these responsibilities and support the effective management of the marine protected area.

The ministry has encouraged guides working across South Ari Atoll who have yet to take the examination to participate in the remaining sessions.