Malaika Vaz, a student of Sharda Mandir, Goa, has experienced what a teenager can only dream of — a life in the Arctic and Antarctic. In an interview to the Times NIE, she talks about the other world…
Q How did you make it to the expedition? What was the purpose of your visit?
I was always inspired by the works of David Attenborough, the naturalist and BBC broadcaster, and wanted to experience the life in the Antarctic. This urge guided me to the National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research (NCAOR), Goa. However, as the NCAOR doesn’t have polar programmes for school students, the director of NCAOR, Rasik Ravindra, encouraged me to apply for the ‘students on ice’ programme. I applied for it online and got selected. I am glad that I got a chance to experience life in the Arctic and Antarctic regions through this programme. The purpose was to set an example for the next generation of environmental leaders to pay attention to this region.
Q How many members were there in your team?
We were 65 students from different countries, along with explorers and scientists. Our expeditions were led by Canadian explorer Geoff Green. I spent around three weeks each in the Arctic and the Antarctic.
Q Did you undergo any training before going there?
After my selection, there were briefings and guidelines on safety, emergency situations and the importance of the Antarctic treaty. We were advised to be responsible, leave no waste behind and respect the culture of the local folk.
Q How did you cope with the rough and unpredictable temperature?
Fortunately, our expedition ice breaker ships were temperature controlled. During our shore landings, treks and cruises, I was equipped with suitable hardy gear to get accustomed to the climatic condition.
Please share some of your experiences: Words cannot describe the sublime beauty of the Polar regions, it has to be experienced. Passing through the tumultuous Drakes passage to get to Antarctica was a challenge, but the charm of the Poles lie in their inaccessibility. During our expedition to the Antarctic, we learnt a lot about the way polar eco-systems work. We were enthralled by the sightings of many cetaceans, penguin rookeries and seals while we performed scientific research and hiked in the region.
Q How did you cook and manage your household chores?
The team took care of cooking. Mostly, we spent our time in shore landings, hikes, station visits, explorations and wildlife observations. The programme also involved seminars and small group discussions.
What is the ‘students on ice’ programme?
It is an award-winning organisation offering unique educational expeditions to the Antarctic and the Arctic.
How to participate
High-school students between 14 and 18 years can participate in this programme.
The selection process
The selection process for the expedition is competitive so applicants should be able to demonstrate certain qualities such as a record of academic achievement, environmental interest, leadership potential, community involvement.