MANILA, PHILIPPINES – To ensure that maritime education and training (MET) evolves to meet the demands of a rapidly advancing industry, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has partnered with the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) in conducting a Symposium on Maritime Education and Training (MET) on 08 November 2024.
MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan, in her keynote address, emphasized that technological advancements are redefining operations across areas such as navigation, logistics, safety protocols, and sustainability initiatives. “With this rapid innovation comes an urgent reality, our educational systems must keep pace, or we risk falling behind. As leaders, educators, and innovators from across the maritime industry, we gather here to discuss how we can evolve our training methods and educational frameworks to meet the demands of a changing world.”
This symposium spotlighted two pressing topics: the leveraging of technology for a future-ready maritime workforce and the upskilling of instructors and assessors of future seafarers. Esteemed maritime experts from IAMU shared insights on these topics, underscoring the importance of adapting to technological advancements and strengthening MET faculty skills.
The morning session centered on leveraging technologies in MET. Key discussions included integrating immersive technologies to augment onboard training for seafarers, making effective use of simulators for enhanced teaching and assessment of competence, and upgrading the digital skills of MET faculty to better prepare students for the modern maritime environment.
MLA College (United Kingdom) Head of Naval Education Prof. Malek Pourzanjani mentioned on his keynote address that the shipping industry is changing very rapidly. “New technologies are emerging—digital solutions, automation, and responses to the reduction of greenhouse gases—all of which create challenges for maritime education and training providers. We need to think differently, think smarter, and prepare smarter people to serve the industry. The changes I mentioned also include the global regulatory regime.”
In the afternoon session, discussions revolved around essential skills for maritime educators and institutions. Topics included fostering critical thinking in future maritime workforces and MET institutions; managing seafarers’ education and training in line with the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention; and ensuring academic excellence and professional competence in maritime higher education institutions (MHEIs).
In his closing remarks, MARINA STCW Office Deputy Executive Director Capt. Vicente C. Navarro urged participants to take the knowledge gained from the event and apply it within their institutions as a call to action. “Embrace the technological advancements discussed and prioritize the upskilling of your faculty. Together, let us transform our MET programs and cultivate a future-ready workforce capable of navigating the complexities of the maritime industry.”
MARINA STCW Office MET Standards Supervisor Presca Lee B. Lugo and John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University International Relations Director Dr. Virmari S. Tan moderated the symposium.
The symposium underscored the shared vision of MARINA and IAMU to improving maritime education by integrating technological advancements and bolstering instructional excellence. Through collaborative efforts, both organizations aim to equip future seafarers with the skills and knowledge needed for a rapidly evolving industry.
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