In an exciting turn of events, the victorious team of the "BAIKULHA BAI" competition, held as part of the Maldives Ocean Hackathon, was recently treated to a unique experience at the Marine Conservation Centre at CROSSROADS Maldives. This extraordinary opportunity, granted to the winning team, unfolded as part of the ongoing hype surrounding the ocean hackathon events.

Contrary to initial perceptions that CROSSROADS might be just another human-made island project impacting existing marine ecosystems, the visit to the Marine Conservation Centre revealed a different narrative. The meticulous efforts undertaken before the project's commencement and the successful preservation of the marine ecosystem were evident during the team's exploration.

Mr. Aladin Pakbara, the Leader of the Sustainable Development Team at CROSSROADS Maldives, presented a comprehensive history of the project's development. The Marine Discovery Centre, a pioneering vision, spearheads coral propagation initiatives, emphasizing conservation issues and showcasing the breathtaking beauty of local wildlife.

Equipped with a marine biology laboratory, coral propagation facilities, and a clownfish release program, the Marine Discovery Centre offers interactive activities such as tuna discovery scuba diving, snorkeling, coral nursery exploration, and marine conservation programs. The experience promises to captivate both adults and children alike.

Coral propagation through fragmentation emerged as a focal point, highlighting its significance in the conservation of damaged coral reefs, particularly crucial in the Maldives where eco-tourism relies heavily on healthy coral ecosystems. The threat of coral bleaching due to rising sea temperatures looms large, posing a challenge to the Maldives' coral reefs, which serve as a magnet for tourists engaging in activities like diving and snorkeling. During their visit, the winning team gained hands-on experience planting corals in the laboratory set up at the center, deepening their understanding of marine conservation efforts.