Andry Rakotondrazafy

Andry joined us in August 2007 having been awarded one of our Indian Ocean Scholarships.

My name is RAKOTONDRAZAFY Andry Malalan’Ny Aina. I come from Madagascar. I have been working as biologist since 2001, but most of the fields that I have done have focused on terrestrial species. I applied for a scholarship granted by Blue Ventures on June 30th to August 10th, 2007 and participated on many activities in Andavadoaka as volunteer.

I would like to share with you my great experience in Andavadoaka as a part of the Blue Ventures team expedition. I had an enjoyed opportunity to have exchanges with other participants who come from different countries. Many thanks to Blue Ventures who gave me the great opportunity to follow the field courses on marine biology. As terrestrial biologist, I saw the differences between managing terrestrial and marine protected area. I had increased my knowledge about marine research through the many staff’s lectures concerning the methodology on exploring, surveying and monitoring marine protected area.

I don’t really have words to describe a day in the life whilst I was in Andavadoaka. I think each time I spent there was particular. I would like to sum it up by giving for all the staff, either in London or in Andavadoaka, many thanks. You are very kind.

There was also a very interesting course about life saving which will be useful not only for my professional career but for my daily life. This kind of scholarship is very important for Malagasy student, researcher, or all persons who are interested in marine biology, environment and biodiversity.

For Malagasy students, I encourage them to attend this field course if you want to be initiated into marine biology, diving course and many activities relating to the management of marine protected area.

I thank Blue Ventures for organising this expedition and for giving an opportunity to Malagasy people to take part in this international level.