Safeguarding Traditional Ocean Wisdom and Education (STOWE)

Safeguarding Traditional Ocean Wisdom and Education (STOWE) is a workforce development initiative housed under the Northern Marianas College Natural Resource Management Program (NRMP) and funded by the Blue Nature Alliance. Awarded in 2024, STOWE is designed to build local capacity by preparing CNMI-based students for careers in conservation, ocean stewardship, and sustainable resource management.

The program supports two core objectives:

1. Curriculum development to expand and enhance NRMP course offerings—including the creation of new emphasis tracks under the associate degree program and laying the foundation for a future four-year degree in Natural Resource Management.
2. Supplemental learning opportunities, such as paid internships and work-study placements with partner organizations, to help students gain real-world experience and applied skills.

In recent years, NRMP has worked to strengthen articulation pathways for students and build academic foundations for resource-related careers. STOWE builds upon that momentum with new courses focused on the integration of Western science and Indigenous Traditional Ecological and Cultural Knowledge (ITECK). These courses will explore critical topics such as ocean and land stewardship, food security, community health, and environmental resilience—equipping students with the knowledge and competencies needed for today’s interdisciplinary workforce.

The ultimate goal of STOWE is to create clear, supported pathways from education to employment, ensuring that students are not only prepared academically, but also professionally, to lead and contribute to the conservation and management of our island resources.

Program Objectives

1. Increase workforce readiness among CNMI-based students through training, mentorship, and practical experience in ocean resource management and administration.
2. Develop interdisciplinary curricula and expand course offerings through collaborative community partnerships.
3. Increase local capacity for ocean stewardship and conservation through career-aligned education and applied learning opportunities.
4. Support academic and professional pathways for students pursuing careers or further education in marine science, conservation, management, or research.

Program Activities

1. Curriculum development and course expansion under the Natural Resource Management Program, including the creation of new emphasis tracks focused on ITECK, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and marine biology.
2. Paid internships and work-study opportunities with community partners from both the private and public sector.
3. Professional development and skill-building workshops focused on interdisciplinary curriculum development, communication, and facilitation.
4. Collaborative projects and outreach including the development of educational materials, exhibits, and media that promote community partnerships and locally-led conservation efforts.