STATUS: acceptance/rejection emails have been sent to all main authors. If you haven't seen yours, please look in your Junk folder, especially of you use a Gmail address. Should you still not find it, please contact info@exbo.co.za and request a re-send of the notification.

Please note that you cannot use your profile from a past conference, you will need to register a new one.

Please read the full Call for Abstracts here:
https://symposium.wiomsa.org/13th-wiomsa-symposium-first-announcement-and-call-for-abstracts


We invite submissions of innovative and impactful abstracts focusing on marine and coastal science and management. The conference program will be organized around three core themes and 10 sub-themes, with a focus on presenting new science and approaches across marine and coastal science and management.

Abstracts aligning with these themes are highly encouraged, though submissions on other relevant topics are welcome. The deadline for submissions of abstracts is 28th March 2025.

Submission Guidelines
To be considered, abstracts must adhere to the following requirements:
1. Language: English.
2. Title: Maximum 100 characters.
3. Abstract Body: 100–350 words, clear and concise, with correct spelling and grammar.
4. Co-authors: No limit on the number of co-authors.
5. Mathematical Symbols and Equations: Can be typed or embedded as images.
6. Presentation Preference: Indicate your preference for oral or poster presentation. Note that preferences are not guaranteed.

Abstract Submission Process
1. Use this abstract platform to submit. No emailed abstracts will be considered.
2. Complete all required fields, including:
  • Full name, affiliation, and country of each co-author.
  • Presenting author's full name and email address.
  • Presentation format preference (oral or poster).
  • Alignment with any symposium core sub-themes.
3. Upon submission, a confirmation message with your abstract number will be displayed. You will also receive a confirmation email.

Abstract Review and Selection
Submitted abstracts will undergo peer review and will be evaluated based on their quality, scientific rigor, and novelty. If accepted, at least one author must register and attend the conference to present the work.

Important Notes
• Each accepted paper or poster must be presented by the main author or one of the co-authors.
• Duplicate submissions to multiple sessions are not allowed and will be rejected.
• Abstracts must be written in English and meet the symposium's quality standards.

Responsibilities of Authors
• Present the abstract at the symposium or withdraw it early if unable to attend. Abstracts not presented will be marked as no-shows.
• Ensure abstracts align with symposium goals and adhere to standards of scientific quality and civil discourse.

Student Presentations
Students may opt to have their oral or poster presentation evaluated for a chance to win a prize. If you are a current student, or were a student at any time during 2024-2025, look for the sign-up option when you're submitting your abstract.
Members of the Scientific Committee will evaluate presentations of all students who opt to have their work considered.

Opportunities to Get Involved
Below are exciting opportunities to contribute creatively to the Symposium:
1. Organizing a Thematic Session
Take the lead on a session or track focused on a specific topic of interest. These sessions can feature presentations, panel discussions, or interactive formats. To express your interest, contact secretary@wiomsa.org.
2. Conducting a Workshop or Tutorial
Share practical tools, techniques, and insights by hosting a pre-symposium workshop or tutorial. Details and guidelines for abstract submissions will be shared soon.
3. Showcasing a Technical Demonstration
Present your innovations or technologies through live demonstrations during dedicated post-conference sessions. Express your interest by contacting secretary@wiomsa.org.

We look forward to your abstracts and proposals to make this symposium a dynamic platform for advancing marine and coastal conservation in the Western Indian Ocean region. For questions or additional details, contact us at louis@wiomsa.org