In early May, Peninsula and the University of Gibraltar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will see them partner to provide expert knowledge in the alternative marine fuel training and to develop a framework to improve knowledge on this topic.
Under the MoU, Peninsula and the University will establish a joint study group tasked with developing educational and training content on alternative marine fuels, looking specifically at the transportation, storage and supply of these fuels. The partnership will include subject matter experts from Peninsula delivering some guest lectures at the University.
The ongoing transition to alternative marine fuels has revealed a significant skills gap in shipping, with research suggesting that growing industry demand for alternative fuels far outpaces the pool of seafarers who are qualified to handle these fuels.
Seafarers are vitally important to the world economy – working behind the scenes, they are responsible for the movement of almost all the world’s goods. We need to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to do this important job, particularly as the fuel landscape continues to evolve
… said Aaron Lopez, Head of Maritime Academy from the University of Gibraltar.
Meanwhile, John A. Bassadone, Founder and CEO of Peninsula, said that in line with the industry’s commitment to decarbonisation, many of their customers were exploring alternative marine fuels such as LNG and biofuels for the first time, and that skills gaps could pose a barrier to adoption. He added that the demand on the seafarer community would increase and that they wanted to support customers in closing the skills gap.
