A recent study titled “The Future of Seafarers 2030: A Decade of Transformation,” conducted by DNV and the Singapore Maritime Foundation, highlights the pressing need for enhanced training in advanced digital technologies among seafarers. Eighty percent of seafarers in Singapore expressed a requirement for either partial or complete training in areas such as advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and remote operations. This need aligns with a broader shift towards digitization and automation in the maritime industry, making it vital for seafarers to adapt to new technologies.
The preference for training methods is noteworthy; 52% of participants preferred in-person training at maritime academies, despite 70% having utilized simulators, virtual reality (VR), or digital environments in their training. The latter technologies have proven effective in skill development, with two-thirds of respondents believing that advanced digital tools onboard would ease their responsibilities. Furthermore, over half of the seafarers indicated that innovations in fuels, automation, and digitalization could help attract new talent to the maritime profession and retain existing personnel.
Based on these insights, the study recommends a future seafarer training model where maritime academies focus on teaching fundamental shipboard skills, while ship operators offer specialized training tailored to specific fuels and vessels. A blended approach to training is encouraged, integrating digital and in-person components to enhance accessibility and efficacy. Additionally, utilizing technologies such as VR and AR could further improve training outcomes.
To optimize training effectiveness, the research stresses that shipowners, operators, and training academies must prioritize timely training for seafarers according to their roles and experience. Senior officers should be the first to receive training on new technologies to enable effective mentoring and knowledge transfer to junior crew members, who could augment their onboard experience with technology-assisted learning methods.
Moreover, the industry should explore opportunities for seafarers to transition into shore-based roles, such as vessel control and monitoring, as digital innovations continue to reshape maritime operations. This presents a potential pathway for career development that extends beyond traditional sea roles.
As industry leaders highlight, prioritizing the training and development of sea-going professionals is crucial amid rapid transformations driven by digital innovation and fuel transitions. Safeguarding the human element in operations is paramount, ensuring that seafarers are well-prepared to address the inherent safety risks associated with emerging fuels and technologies. According to Tan Beng Tee of the Singapore Maritime Foundation, such advancements could attract a younger generation to maritime careers, provided clear pathways to sustainable development are established.
In summary, this study emphasizes the importance of equipping seafarers with the necessary skills for future challenges, balancing tech innovation with traditional maritime competence to foster a safer and more efficient maritime environment.
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