On Saturday evening, November 8, during a festive gathering at Fort Zoutman, all participants received their certificates for completing the program. The certificates were presented by the Minister of Tourism, Transport and Labor, Mr. Wendrick Cecilia, and Professor Martijn Manders of Leiden University, the leader of the training.
Throughout the evening, speakers highlighted the historic significance within the Kingdom of the Netherlands: for the first time, all islands participated in a training in underwater archaeology. The sense of unity and collaboration among the participants was praised, creating a strong foundation for future cooperation between the islands in the field of cultural heritage.
In his speech, Professor Martijn Manders commended MANA for its excellent organizational and logistical support. He emphasized that Aruba made a strong impression and that he sees many opportunities for continued collaboration with each island.
Sixteen professionals working in cultural heritage and nature conservation from the six islands of the Dutch Caribbean spent three weeks receiving theoretical and practical instruction aimed at developing a management plan for marine cultural heritage. The intensive program was offered by the Netherlands’ Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE).
Divided into two teams, participants developed a management proposal for the underwater archaeological site SS Pedernales. Each team also created a poster illustrating key elements of the site.
Aruba was represented by four professionals: maritime ranger Shane Thielman of the Aruba Conservation Foundation (ACF), ecologist Oriana Wouters, and archaeologists Harold Kelly and Raymundo Dijkhoff on behalf of MANA.
During the training period, three optional excursions were also organized. On the final Sunday, participants began early with an exploration of Arikok National Park, coordinated by maritime ranger Shane Thielman of ACF.
Archaeologists Harold Kelly and Raymundo Dijkhoff led the first and second excursions, visiting various (maritime) archaeological sites including Spaans Lagoen, Ayo, Tanki Flip, Bank’I Jerome, Sero Colorado, Alto Vista and the California Lighthouse. Participants also explored cultural areas such as the colorful murals of San Nicolas.
MANA extends its gratitude to the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands for offering this training and for trusting MANA to co-organize the program. Special recognition is given to trainers Professor Martijn Manders, Robert de Hoop and Cimberly Symester, as well as project secretary Lieke Haan.
MANA also thanks the Ministry of General Affairs, Culture, Environment and Nature for hosting the closing ceremony at Fort Zoutman, Minister Gerlien Croes for officially opening the training, and Minister Wendrick Cicilia for his remarks and participation in the closing event.
A special thanks goes to the Aruban media for informing the public and once again providing MANA with a platform to reach the community.
Press release: MANA
