I agree with u Lily, but I think teachers should be trained or certified at the teachers' training colleges, so that they will be ready with the fire in their bellies when they hit the schools. Many things can be done, but are not done as yet.
How many local universities and colleges has Diving clubs, or societies, or promotes diving as an extra curricular activity with credits? These students would be professionals, and through them, the diving industry can grow, thus creating more awareness of our ocean conservation efforts for the next generation.
I remembered my days back in teachers' training college. Within one year (for KPLI) we need to fulfill 32 credits including 12 weeks of practicum. It was just hell!! But very enjoying. All trainees must go for BIG-Bina Insan Guru and it has two slots of water activity - kayaking and floating ( ;D). I had witnessed few teachers to be had their 'first taste' of water activities from this program.
In the new system they offered after SPM students to do their Bachelor of Education. In this system, they spent 5 years to complete their course. This groups of teachers to be are the best group if we are targeting to educate and to train teachers.
Few weeks back, there was an activity held by one of the pusat kokurilum at one marine park. They selected form 4 students- 2 each from selected schools. It is a good activity to educate the kids on awareness of our ocean. I was told about it earlier and my buddy and I offered to chaperon the kids - hey I might not yet being certified as a rescuer but at least I have extra skills then others. We were not told when is the program and only knew it was on the day it started. The accompanying teacher (from my school) is not a certified diver or what so ever and my buddy and I were not selected just because we are teaching a critical subject and been suggested not to leave school often. I am not being a green eyed monster but we are dealing with the students life.
The sports department of MOE do admit on this lack of safety personnel problem, but have anything being done - no! We don't want to risk a life just to make people aware on this problem.
From this forum I know that MMU has a diving club, how about other unis?