UK submissions have been accepted by the Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) sub-committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop into a major amendment to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
At the heart of the change is the UK’s Cadet Training and Modernisation Programme, an initiative in which the MCA is working with industry and seafarers to update skills and certification to match developing technology and practice.
On 14 February, the UK’s proposed revisions in a report for the STCW Comprehensive Review Working Group were supported by a plenary meeting of the HTW sub-committee. They will now be taken forward by the international working group.
The submissions will ultimately become part of the STCW convention and the associated mandatory code, updating and futureproofing the delivery of skills to raise standards, safety and environmental protection around the world.
Highlights include
- essential skills for decarbonisation and increased digitisation at sea
- benefits to seafarers and operators from bridge simulator training
- development of officer roles in response to technological advances in navigation, propulsion and automation
Shajan Lukose, MCA Head of Nautical Examiners, said
This is the first step in a long process that will involve further development and work with international partners, perhaps over a decade until they are implemented.
It puts the UK at the forefront of global training practices that will help keep vessels safe, our seas clean, and ensure skills keep pace with technology. We’re very proud to share our success with the world.
Background
For more information about the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, visit https//www.imo.org/en/ourwork/humanelement/pages/stcw-conv-link.aspx
The CT&M Programme, led by the MCA, is based on recommendations made by the Seafarer and Cadet Training Review, which brought together key stakeholders, including the Merchant Navy Training Board, focused on improving cadet training. It is believed to be the first time a maritime regulator has joined forces with industry experts to shape cadet training in this way.
The Seafarer and Cadet Training Review was launched by the Maritime Skills Commission on the instruction of the Maritime Minister in 2021.
While the MCA does not deliver training, it is responsible for overseeing that standards are maintained by providers through regular audits.
