Groups representing the shipping industry participated in a key summit in the Philippines aimed at strengthening the seafaring workforce.
Shaping the Future of Shipping: Seafarer 2050, on 27 June in Manila, was a gathering of employers, shipowners and unions focused on prioritizing the needs of seafarers around the world. The event was organised by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Maritime Employers’ Council Ltd. (IMEC) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), with the Filipino Shipowners’ Association (FSA).
As President, I reiterate my directive to the Maritime Industry Authority and the Commission on Higher Education to work closely with the shipping industry on the upskilling and reskilling of Filipino seafarers to prepare them for the shift of ocean-going vessels from using conventional fuel sources to green ammonia between 2030 to 2040.
… stated President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr
Delegates examined the opportunities and challenges facing the world’s nearly two million seafarers over the coming decades, including increasing automation and digitisation, and the production and transportation of future fuels. The agenda prioritised education, capacity-building, recruitment, and retention and just transition strategies to strengthen the industry’s future amidst evolving challenges.
It’s the right time to put seafarers centre stage. We’re delighted to have brought together the global maritime community for the first time to remind the world of seafarers’ unique value to society, and to discuss solutions and opportunities for future generations.
… said Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the ICS board
Stephen Cotton, General Secretary of the ITF stated that this summit presents an opportunity to define what skills, what technologies, what standards of training, will be needed in the future, and to ensure that the seafarers who move the world’s cargo are at the centre of driving the transformation of our industry.
Industry challenges due to climate change, technological innovation will require huge investment in Seafarers Skill upgrade. We at IMEC are committed to work together with employers, our social partners ITF and our industry Partner ICS to ensure the transition to 2050 is achieved together
… said Capt. Belal Ahmed, Chairman of IMEC
