As part of the capacity-building efforts for the SUSTAIN project, a training course will be delivered on ocean modeling and AI for coastal biogeochemical characterisation and increased resilience in the Philippines. It will be the first CoastPredict training course in collaboration with DCC-CR (Decade Collaborative Centre for Coastal Resilience), which will potentially serve as a template that can be replicated in other regions.

Course objective

This training program offers a comprehensive introduction to numerical ocean modeling, machine learning techniques and remote sensing applications, to simulate and analyze the complex dynamics and biodiversity of Philippine marine environments. It is designed to provide professional development to enhance capacity in modeling and assessment to support the protection and conservation of marine ecosystems and natural resources.

Participants will gain an understanding of key concepts in numerical ocean circulation modeling, dynamical downscaling methodology, unsupervised machine learning algorithms and remote sensing applications. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and upskilling, enabling participants to develop practical skills using advanced ocean modeling tools to address real-world challenges in marine environments.

The course introduces the SURF ocean modeling platform through a detailed, step-by-step tutorial that guides learners in setting up and running simulations. A specific case study focused on the Philippine coastal region will be performed to provide real-world context, allowing participants to apply their new skills to practical scenarios. The knowledge and expertise gained from this program will enhance capacities for predicting and managing the impacts of human activities and climate change on ocean dynamics and marine ecosystems.

Venue

The course will be subdivided into two phases:

An online phase will take place through OTGA e-learning platform.

An in-person phase which will be held in Quezon City, Philippines, at the University of Philippines. 

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course the participants should be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the key principles behind Numerical Ocean Circulation modeling and the Dynamical Downscaling methodology.
• Set up and execute ocean simulations using the SURF ocean modeling platform.
• Apply advanced AI modeling techniques to predict and analyze coastal chlorophyll concentrations.
• Incorporate remote sensing data into oceanographic analyses to enhance environmental monitoring

Target audience

The course is targeted particularly towards mid-career scientists and professionals from environmental protection agencies, governmental officers and postgraduate students (with basic knowledge of oceanography and modeling).                  

Technological requirements/computer skills

• Python, Jupyter notebook

Course content and agenda

• Preparatory Phase - 24 Feb 2025: 8.00 CET / 15:00 GMT+8 (3 hours) - (BBB)

• Francesco Trotta - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Aletta T. Yñiguez - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines Diliman
• Federica Benassi - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Luca Giunti - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Laura T. David - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Cesar L. Villanoy - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Aiko Love B. del Rosario - Marine Science Institute - University of the Philippines
• Viviana Piermattei - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Lorenzo Mentaschi -  University of Bologna
• Igor Atake - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Gianandrea Mannarini - Fondazione Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC)
• Samantha Siedlecki - Department of Marine Sciences - University of Connecticut 

Course Duration

The course has a total of 42.5 hours, according to the following structure:

• 24 Feb - 8:00 CET/15:00 Philippines time (GMT+8) - 3.5 hours (synchronous, online)
• 26 Feb - 8:00 CET/15:.00 Philippines time (GMT+8) 1 hour (synchronous, online)
• Assignments ~ 8 hours (asynchronous, online) 
• 5 days (3-7 March)-  9:00-16:00 (GMT+8) ~ 6 hours /day ( ~ 30 hours) (synchronous, face-to-face)

Certificate

OTGA Certificate will be awarded to the participants upon successful completion of assignments online and delivery of a group presentation according to the course planning.

Notes

Application process

This course is by invitation only, with a limited number of seats (10-15) participants.

Selection criteria

UNESCO is committed to promoting equal access principles. Applications from minority or underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged.

Costs

Free of charge. There are no tuition fees.

The course is offered free of charge to the participants. The participants would have to cover their own costs of their travel and stay in Quezon city. Instructors are self-funded.

Contacts

For any questions, please contact OTGA Secretariat (ioc.training@unesco.org), always using the name of the course as e-mail subject.

Cancellation policy

In the event of cancellation of the course by the OTGA or its affiliates, we will provide notification of cancellation at least 7 days prior to the course date. In the event of cancellation by the attendee, we should receive notification of cancellation at least 7 days prior to the course date.