“Wednesdays at the Academy” was a series of talks given in Santiago to disseminate marine sciences during the “Year of the Oceans 2017”. Organized by IMO and the Chilean Academy of Sciences, these talks were given by distinguished Chilean scientists working on oceanography and the sea in general, such as Osvaldo Ulloa, Rubén Escribano, Miriam Fernández and Cristián Vargas. The meetings took place on Wednesdays and were open to the public, the only requirement being to previously sign up on the internet.

The last talk of the series was given on Wednesday July 5 by Dr. Juan Carlos Castilla, who was awarded the Chilean National Prize for Applied Sciences in 2010. His lecture entitled “Ese Mar que Tranquilo Te Baña”, a reference in Chile’s national anthem to “the sea that tranquilly bathes your shores”, was a review of the country’s marine resources and the sea in general.

The aim of Dr. Castilla’s talk was to raise consciousness about territorial waters and their importance for Chile. He has also given the same talk at other events, such as the “Future Congress” for young people. In regard to this congress, Dr. Castilla, who is also an IMO senior researcher, said: “I believe this is an outstanding opportunity. We are reaching thousands of children in Chile. The idea is to communicate scientists’ work and dedication to children through a clear message.” These words prove his commitment to the dissemination of marine sciences to younger generations.

To take part in this activity open to everyone, please sign up on the official website of the Chilean Academy of Sciences.