The United Marine Training Center (UMTC) in Manila recently broke ground on its Green Energy Center, aimed at equipping Filipino seafarers with skills for the maritime industry’s transition to alternative fuels. President Antonio Galvez emphasized the center’s role in fostering competence, safety, and sustainability in a rapidly evolving maritime landscape.
This summer, sixty young individuals are beginning their careers with Hapag-Lloyd, Germany’s largest maritime training company. The apprenticeship programs provide pathways to long-term careers, both at sea and on land. With initiatives like the Shefarer Program, Hapag-Lloyd is also committed to enhancing female representation in maritime roles.
TAFE Queensland invites the community to name its new 8-meter rigid inflatable training vessel, enhancing maritime education in South East Queensland. This vessel will provide hands-on training for students, supporting the growing marine industry. The naming competition closes on August 16, with winners receiving a whale-watching experience.
The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has welcomed a second group of 24 trainees for the GP Rating and Certificate Course in Maritime Catering onboard the MV Swaraj Dweep. This initiative, part of the Structured Onboard Training Programme by the Ministry of Ports, aims to enhance maritime training and employability.
Vanuatu’s maritime authorities are addressing the shortage of qualified Ni-Vanuatu seafarers by enhancing training programs and creating new career pathways. The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority and Maritime College are appointing a new CEO to drive reforms, ensuring local seafarers meet international standards and secure employment on various vessels.
The Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE), managed by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited, has received international certification from the UK Nautical Institute. This milestone enhances Nigeria’s maritime training capabilities, elevating the employability of its seafarers and reducing reliance on foreign institutions, while fostering local development and safety in the sector.
IRCLASS Academy has partnered with AMET University through a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance maritime education and research. This collaboration focuses on integrating academic programs with industry needs, offering joint initiatives like curriculum development, internships, and hands-on learning experiences, ultimately preparing students for successful careers in the maritime sector.
The Directorate General of Shipping in India has launched Circular No. 53 of 2025, enhancing crew welfare and safety at sea. This includes a new training module addressing workplace violence, to be integrated into Basic Safety Training. Mandatory for all seafarers by January 2026, it promotes a respectful maritime environment.
The Albanese Government has launched the Maritime Skills and Training Initiative (MSTI) with a $13.8 million investment to provide sea time access for 20 trainee seafarers. This program aims to tackle skill shortages and enhance workforce capabilities in the maritime sector, supporting the next generation of certified seafarers.
ABS has signed an agreement to acquire MetaSHIP intellectual property and vessel simulator software from Orka Informatics, pending Turkish regulatory approval. This move aims to enhance ABS’s maritime training solutions, offering accessible digital training on board, in ports, or from home, while improving fleet safety and compliance in a rapidly evolving industry.
Danish Shipping has launched a program to enhance maritime skills among African cadets, focusing on West Africa. Collaborating with major Danish shipowners like Maersk and Norden, the initiative aims to provide world-class training. Since 2019, 18 students have been sponsored, with more set to join in the coming years.
The maritime industry is embracing digital transformation, with over 70% of training professionals anticipating increased e-learning adoption. The ICS Academy aims to deliver accessible digital training for seafarers globally, utilizing a mobile-first approach. This innovative platform accommodates diverse learning preferences, promoting continuous education and enhancing operational safety standards in maritime training.
Qatar’s inaugural Maritime Training and Simulation Centre (MTSC) opened at the University of Doha for Science and Technology, inaugurated by HE Mohammed Abdullah al-Maadeed. The MTSC aims to enhance maritime skills through advanced simulation training, positioning Qatar as a leader in maritime education and innovation, with programs recognized by the International Maritime Organization.
The Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) fund, with a multi-million-pound budget, aids cadets and junior officers in the maritime sector by covering up to 50% of training costs. The funding deadline has been extended to March 2025, promoting recruitment and enhancing careers in maritime for both men and women.
International shipping is shifting towards greener fuels like methanol and ammonia, necessitating enhanced training for maritime professionals. Captain Chatur Wahyu emphasized the need for crews to manage fire risks associated with these fuels, while the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore launched a digital platform to streamline training and compliance for seafarers.
