ISN Students Participate in United Nations Ocean Conference Round Table in Nice

A group of Grade 9 students from ISN achieved an outstanding milestone this June by participating in the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC), hosted in Nice. Invited through the Mini 30x30 youth mobilisation project, the students took part in a high-level round table on ocean action, alongside students from countries including Peru, Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, and East Timor.

ISN was the only school in France to have students participating in a UNOC round table event—an extraordinary opportunity that highlights the school’s emphasis on student leadership, global awareness, and sustainability education.

The students joined the conversation with international peers and addressed pressing issues related to ocean protection in the presence of Peter Thomson, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean. Following the round table, they had the unique opportunity to speak with Mr Thomson directly, asking questions and gaining valuable insight into the global movement to safeguard the ocean.

ISN’s Sustainability and Eco-School Coordinator, Melanie Laroche, accompanied the students and remarked: “Our students spoke with confidence, clarity, and passion. They were composed and thoughtful throughout, representing ISN with pride. We also had the chance to meet members of the European Blue School network, strengthening our links with international marine education initiatives.”

The invitation to participate came from Rita Borges, a key figure in the Mini 30x30 project, who praised the ISN students for their leadership and powerful voices. The students’ presence at such a high-profile international forum reflects the strength of ISN’s sustainability education and the real-world impact of its learning experiences.

One parent shared their perspective: “UNOC3, held in Nice where the school they attend is located, serves as a powerful reminder that education is not just about learning facts, but about preparing for a future where they can make meaningful impacts. Your guidance has been instrumental in helping them understand that their participation may be the beginning of something greater.”

Reflecting on the experience, Melanie Laroche added: “When students are given the opportunity to lead, and the chance to connect with the beauty of the ocean, they grow into powerful ambassadors for change. The UN Ocean Conference was not only a recognition of their efforts, but a reminder that the future of ocean protection is already in their hands.”

Through opportunities like this, ISN students are empowered to become global citizens, ready to lead positive change in the world.

To learn more about our sustainability education, visit https://www.isn-nice.com/our-school/sustainable-development.