IMO, Saudi Arabia launch training program to address global seafarer shortage

IMO, Saudi Arabia launch training program to address global seafarer shortage
19 Feb 2025 https://www.bairdmaritime.com/work-boat-world/research-environment-train...

A new initiative led by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) aims to address the global seafarer shortage while creating career opportunities for aspiring seafarers from developing nations.

Running from 2025 to 2026, the NextWave Seafarers Project will provide 20 cadets from least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS) with one year of onboard training through Saudi Arabia's Bahri Shipping Line.

The goal of the initiative is to develop a scalable training model that can be adopted globally, encouraging more countries and shipping lines to participate.

The aims of the project include the following:

*Establish a sustainable, onboard cadet-training framework to develop, upskill, and retain future seafarers;
*Address key barriers preventing LDCs and SIDS cadets from entering the industry, including access to training placements and financial support; and
*Showcase the initiative as a pilot model that can be expanded and replicated worldwide

With 1.9 million seafarers ensuring the movement of over 80 per cent of global trade, the maritime industry faces an urgent workforce challenge, particularly a shortage of officers, as demands on maritime transport grow.

Through its cooperative framework between IMO, member states and shipping companies, the NextWave Seafarers initiative provides a proactive solution by creating a structured talent pipeline and a steady influx of skilled professionals into the sector.

The NextWave Seafarers Project invites IMO member states, training institutions, and shipping companies to collaborate in expanding this initiative and building a skilled and resilient maritime workforce.

The project's outcomes will be shared with IMO member states to shape future policy recommendations, enhance global seafarer training frameworks, and contribute to long-term maritime workforce planning.

IMO will issue a circular letter to member states in due course requesting nominations of cadets from LDCs and SIDS through their respective maritime administrations. The circular letter will explain the criteria for selection and mode of participation in the training programme.