FINLANDS SJÖFART ■ SUOMEN MERENKULKU 73 As new technology is introduced and societal attitudes change, seafarer training can’t stand still. But, as with so many things in the global shipping industry, it’s a massive project to agree international standards for maritime education – one that takes years of discussion at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The good news for members is that we can take their views straight to the decision-makers at the IMO, which is the only United Nations agency based in London. Whenever training standards are reviewed, there are delegations to the IMO from flag states such as the UK and Netherlands, but also representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs). That’s where we come in: we speak as part of the International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations (IFSMA) or Element, Training and Watchkeeping Subcommittee (HTW),’ Mr Appleton explains. ‘Interested parties submit amendments, which are then discussed, accepted, or rejected. But this isn’t a typical amendment cycle – it’s a full-scale review of the entire convention.’ Before formal proposals were considered, the process began with identifying gaps. Stakeholders assessed where the current STCW framework falls short, whether due to outdated provisions or emerging industry needs. That gap analysis now underpins the current phase, where specific proposals aim to close those gaps and modernise the STCW Convention and Code. KEEPING SEAFARERS EMPLOYED AND SAFE AS NEW FUELS ARRIVE In his opening remarks at February’s HTW meetings, IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez emphasised the ” The STCW change to simulator use shouldn't be about cutting sea time – it should be about increasing competence’ Nautilus head of professional and technical David Appleton Pictured throughout: Our behind-the-scenes work on standard-setting and educational funding benefits cadets in the Netherlands, the UK and all around the world the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). Nautilus head of professional and technical David Appleton was the voice of the Union at the IMO meetings in February and March, and he has now reported back on the issues members most wanted to hear about. HOW DOES THE REVIEW OF TRAINING STANDARDS WORK? All seafarers around the world must hold certain certificates to work at sea, and that means passing qualifications that adhere to the IMO Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention and Code. Adopted by the IMO in 1978, STCW has been periodically reviewed and amended, and at present there is a major review underway which is expected to conclude in 2029 or 2030. ‘The review falls under the IMO Human CREDITS: NAUTILUS INTERNATIONAL
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