Saudi Arabia And International Maritime Organization Launch NextWave Seafarers Project To Enhance Maritime Training Opportunities

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the Transport General Authority (TGA) and Bahri, has introduced the NextWave Seafarers pilot project in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This initiative was unveiled at the IMO headquarters in London. It aims to train maritime academy cadets from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), while also promoting advanced research and international cooperation in the maritime sector.

The agreement for this project was formalised during the IMO Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW) meeting. Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the IMO, Eng. Kamal Al-Junaidi, and Director of the IMO’s Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division, Dr. Jose Matheickal, signed it. The project is set to run from 2025 to 2026 with a budget of approximately $700,000 (SAR2,625,000).

This initiative primarily focuses on capacity building by addressing the underrepresentation of seafarers from SIDS and LDCs in the global shipping workforce. It offers hands-on training opportunities aboard Saudi vessels for maritime academy cadets from these regions. In its initial phase, 20 cadets will receive onboard training between 2025 and 2026 to gain practical experience and essential skills for their maritime careers.

Additionally, an international study will be conducted as part of this project to examine barriers faced by maritime students from SIDS and LDCs when entering the sector. Challenges such as limited access to sea-time training and difficulties in meeting required service time for certification will be analysed.

The NextWave Seafarers project also aims to enhance collaboration between IMO member states and shipping companies. By encouraging further international participation in similar programs, it seeks to strengthen ties within the global maritime community.

Saudi Arabia envisions this project as a catalyst for positive change in the maritime sector. By identifying challenges faced by seafarers from LDCs and SIDS, it aims to address these issues effectively. The Kingdom's commitment is reflected in its efforts to support seafarers, improve global maritime standards, and ensure growth in this vital industry.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of enhancing safety regulations and developing sustainable career pathways for maritime academy cadets. By investing in training programs and fostering international partnerships, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its dedication to building a resilient future for the shipping industry.

Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia supports seafarers while promoting capacity-building initiatives that contribute to sustainable development within the global maritime sector.

With inputs from SPA