In 2024 ISA welcomed two new Capacity Development initiatives in collaboration with the ISA – Egypt Joint Training and Research Centre and the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC).

Under Article 145 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), ISA is responsible for taking the necessary measures to ensure the effective protection of the marine environment from the harmful effects that may arise from activities in the Area. The 1994 Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of UNCLOS (1994 Agreement) reaffirms those responsibilities by stating that between the entry into force of UNCLOS and the approval of the first work plan for exploitation, ISA shall concentrate on, inter alia, the “adoption of rules, regulations and procedures incorporating applicable standards for the protection and preservation of the marine environment.” The 1994 Agreement requires that an application for approval of a plan of work shall be accompanied by an assessment of the potential environmental impacts of the proposed activities and by a description of a programme for oceanographic and baseline environmental studies in accordance with ISA rules, regulations and procedures.

In 2024, ISA  has organized  the first edition of the training course on Environmental Impact Assessment for exploration activities carried out in the Area. As part of the training, ISA has developed a tailored Deep Dive module to introduce trainees to the work and mandate of the ISA.

Participants who successfully complete all lessons and their requisite quizzes in this module, will be awarded  with  a special Deep Dive certificate.

Embark on a transformative journey with us and become a steward of our oceans’ future. The frontier of responsible ocean exploration and exploitation awaits—dive in today!”

Following the partnership established under the Memorandum of Understanding, signed in 2024, ISA and the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC) have established the African Academy for Deep Sea Diplomacy (ADSEA).

ADSEA is intended to provide training to diplomats from English and French-speaking African countries in the field of the law of the sea, with particular reference to the regime of the Area under Part XI of UNCLOS.

As part of the ADSEA programme, participants are requested to complete a tailored introductory modules on Deep Dive.

Participants who successfully complete all lessons and their requisite quizzes, will be awarded with a special Deep Duve certificate.