The piloting phase took place from 19-26 November across the four main islands of Wakatobi-Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Binongko. During this period, teachers implemented selected modules in real classrooms, supported by continuous mentoring and technical assistance from KTM Solutions and UNESCO . Further, the weekly online reflection sessions allowed educators to share challenges and insights, while on-site observation visits helped assess student engagement, usability of the materials, and alignment with local marine contexts. Feedback from teachers, students, and community members is now being consolidated to finalise the learning kit.

This piloting phase represents a significant step toward ensuring that the materials are both relevant and effective. By implementing directly in schools, the project team can identify what works, areas requiring adjustment, and improvement, and how students interact with conservation concepts in their own lived environment.

The next steps in Wakatobi include the finalising the learning materials based on feedback from the pilot, followed by the handover of final learning kit to local government authorities, tentatively in April, for implementation across all other schools in Wakatobi, as part of the local curriculum.

UNESCO's engagement in this project reflects its commitment to strengthen quality, inclusive education that contributes to sustainable development. The Sustaining Our Oceans project is also part of UNESCO's broader collaboration with Fast Retailing across Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, and Viet Nam to enhance ocean literacy through education and community engagement.