Two high school students from Monaco will set off on an extraordinary expedition to the Arctic in July, joining an international group of young people, scientists, and educators for a 15-day voyage through northern Canada…
The initiative is part of the Students on Ice program, which has been supported by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the National Education Directorate of Youth and Sports for the past 18 years. The program offers students a unique, first-hand experience of climate change’s impact on the polar regions while engaging with indigenous communities and environmental experts.
At a special event at the Théâtre Princesse Grace, 2024 expedition winners Anna and Maxime shared their experiences with Monaco’s first-year high school students, offering a glimpse into the profound impact of the Arctic journey. Maxime recalled the unforgettable moment he saw his first polar bear—a rare sight that left him in awe of the region’s untouched natural beauty. Anna emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cultures, highlighting the deep heritage, traditions, and knowledge she encountered during her time in the Arctic.
With applications now open for Monaco’s 2025 student representatives, young Monegasques have the opportunity to apply for this transformative experience. Past participants have even gone on to pursue careers in polar research and environmental sciences, such as Justin Sergentil, who took part in 2015 and later conducted research at Antarctica’s Concordia Base.
As climate change continues to threaten polar ecosystems, Monaco remains at the forefront of environmental education and youth engagement, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead the fight for conservation and sustainability.
