Meet the Generation17 Young Leaders: The Story of José Francisco Ochoa
Samsung highlights José Francisco Ochoa, a Generation17 Young Leader, for co-founding Academia del Océano to provide ocean and climate science education in Spanish using AI-driven resources and hands-on learning.
José Francisco Ochoa co-founded Academia del Océano in 2023 to address the lack of Spanish-language ocean and climate science education. The organization uses AI to develop curriculum and multimedia materials, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible lessons for Spanish-speaking communities. Through hands-on fieldwork, such as beach cleanups and mangrove tours, students connect classroom learning to real-world conservation efforts. The initiative aligns with the United Nations Development Programme's Global Goals, particularly Goal 4 (quality education), Goal 13 (climate action), and Goal 14 (life below water).
Academia del Océano operates a coastal center in San Jacinto, Ecuador, where students earn certifications in marine conservation and biology through a partnership with a local university. The program has trained over 10,000 students since 2023, awarded 500+ certifications, planted 2,200+ mangrove seeds, and released approximately 5,000 sea turtle hatchlings. Technology, including Samsung Galaxy devices, supports field research and real-time data collection, making science education more interactive and practical.
The organization’s reach extends beyond Ecuador through virtual programs and an online community, serving students in over 10 countries. Academia del Océano has been recognized as an official activity of the Ocean Decade, a UNESCO-led initiative to advance ocean science by 2030. Alumni like Kerly Martinez have applied their training to start ecotourism ventures focused on conservation and responsible tourism, demonstrating the program’s broader societal impact.
José Francisco Ochoa envisions expanding Academia del Océano to reach more Spanish-speaking communities globally, equipping future generations to protect local ecosystems and contribute to ocean research. The initiative aims to become a leading platform for ocean education and environmental action, bridging language gaps and fostering scientific literacy in regions historically excluded from such opportunities.