Article Summary:

UK registered charity, the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) exists to conduct whale shark research and foster conservation initiatives throughout the Maldives and the Indian Ocean. Based in the new South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area, the research area is one of the few sites in the world where whale sharks aggregate all year round. The MWSRP are beginning a new research season from May 2012, with the launch the first annual Maldivian Whale Shark Festival being just one of many exciting projects.

They are seeking volunteers to assist with their programs and to raise funds for the project.