“Effective standards of training remain the bedrock of a safe and secure shipping industry, which needs to preserve the quality, practical skills and competence of qualified human resources,” Sekimizu said.
The theme was chosen by the IMO to underline the importance to the maritime industry of a skilled and motivated labour force, without which it says shipping cannot thrive and safety and environmental improvements cannot be enacted.
“The 1978 STCW Convention and Code, as amended, has set the international benchmark for the training and education of seafarers. While compliance with its standards is essential for serving on board ships, the skills and competence of seafarers, and indeed, the human element ashore, can only be adequately underpinned, updated and maintained through effective maritime education and training,” Sekimizu added.
The theme of World Maritime Day sets a focus for activities on the day itself in late September, and throughout the year. This year a parallel event to mark the day will be held in Japan.
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Seatrade, a trading name of Informa Markets (UK) Limited. Add Seatrade Maritime News to your Google News feed.
