The Marine Institute celebrates International Development Week

The Marine Institute celebrates the Canadian International Development Agency's (CIDA) 19th Annual International Development Week Feb. 1-7, 2009

Monday, February 2, 2009

This year’s theme, “Development for Results,” reflects the commitment of the Government of Canada and CIDA to achieving more effective aid.

This is measured by tangible results that have made a significant difference in the lives of people receiving Canadian assistance. In conjunction with the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC), MI, through its MI International Office, will be hosting a series of international themed films during the week.

Ryan’s Well and Recycled Life will be shown on Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 12-2pm in room W-3005 at the Marine Institute and again on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 12-2 pm in room E2300.

Ryan’s Well is the story of a young boy’s determination to make a difference in the world. Ryan Hreljac raised thousands of dollars to improve the lives of his pen-pal, Jimmy Akana, his family and friends in Angolo, Uganda by building a well. At the age of seven, Ryan became a local activist speaking at schools and community events about water conservation, poverty and global understanding. When he turned nine, his neighbors made his dream to visit Jimmy come true by donating frequent flyer miles to help him and his parents travel to Uganda.

Recycled Life, an award winning documentary, depicts the hardships and struggles of the thousands of adults and children who have been living and working in the largest and most toxic landfill in Central America, the Guatemala City Garbage Dump, over the last 60 years.

Also showing on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at Bitters Pub from 7-9:30 pm is Darwin’s Nightmare. This documentary focuses on the effect of fishing the Nile perch in Tanzania's Lake Victoria. The predatory fish, which has wiped out the native species, is sold in European supermarkets, while starving Tanzanian families have to make do with the leftovers. MI will showcase the film and contrast the movie with its own development initiatives in Africa and Asia. Refreshments will be served.

The Marine Institute will also be showcasing Flow: For the Love of Water on Thursday, Feb. 5 from 12-2pm in room W-3005. Flow: For the Love of Water concentrates on the big business of privatization of water infrastructure which prioritizes profits over the availability of clean water for people and the environment.

If you require additional information, please contact Kelly Moret (778-0425) or Marlene Power (778-0642) at MI International. If you would like more information on current international activities and projects at the Marine Institute, check out MI International's website.