Seafarers News

The latest Seafarers Happiness Index report reveals a growing disparity in working conditions at sea, with two distinct classes emerging. While the overall happiness index has seen a slight increase, concerns remain about the digital gap in access to modern communications and training. Seafarers on different types of vessels experience varying levels of well-being, highlighting the need for equal resources for all.

OneLearn Global, an eLearning provider in the OneCare Group, launches ‘Mastering Sire 2.0: A Comprehensive Guide to Inspections’ for tanker crews to comply with SIRE 2.0 procedures. The program offers immersive learning experiences with 360-degree images and tailored content. After 15 hours, crew members become SIRE 2.0 specialists, enhancing safety and efficiency in the maritime industry.

Dianne Sampang reported on the recent foiled hijacking attempt in the Gulf of Aden, where two Filipino seafarers were confirmed safe. President Marcos reassured the public of all Filipino seafarers’ safety in Yemen after an Israeli attack on Hodeidah port. The incident highlights the risks seafarers face and the need for swift responses to threats in conflict zones like Yemen.

Sixteen seafarers from Syria and India are stranded in Hodeidah, Yemen after Israeli airstrikes hit the area. The ITF has assisted eight Syrian seafarers to find refuge in a hotel, with efforts ongoing to help the remaining eight return to India. The seafarers are traumatized and the situation is exacerbated by recent airstrikes and the hijacking of another ship crew by Houthi rebels.

A recent study has revealed high levels of physical and verbal aggression, as well as sexual harassment, towards women seafarers. The research emphasizes the need for better reporting procedures in the maritime industry. Women seafarers experience twice as much harassment as men, with many reporting incidents of sexual harassment. The study calls for increased awareness and training to prevent workplace harassment.

A fire on a Nigerian oil company’s floating storage unit led to the successful rescue of all 19 crewmembers by the Nigerian Navy. The 30-year-old FSO in the Delta State region caught fire on July 18, with video footage showing the dramatic rescue operation. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire, highlighting the dangers of the oil industry.

The Seafarers Union of Kenya is advocating for government assistance to repatriate four Kenyan seafarers abandoned in Oman. With no wages for seven months, they are stranded on the ship Mv Saharla. SUK is seeking help for crew members like Salim, Idd, Omar, and Tella, emphasizing the need for tighter regulations on recruitment agencies to prevent such incidents.

Seafarers navigating the Red Sea face the constant threat of terrorist attacks, leading to mental health issues like stress, fear, trauma, and PTSD. Clinical psychologist Alexander Dimitrevich notes the significant distress and potential long-term consequences for these individuals. The Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, driven by a desire to terrorize, add to the stress and anxiety experienced by seafarers, highlighting the urgent need for support.

The new Chancellor of RMU, Alhaji Fanday Turay, vows to elevate academic standards and forge stronger ties with industry partners. At the recent BoG meeting in Accra, Turay emphasized his dedication to diversity, inclusion, and investing in learning resources. With a focus on innovation and critical thinking, he aims to prepare students for success in the maritime sector.