A pioneering initiative led by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) seeks to address the global seafarer shortage while creating new career pathways for aspiring maritime professionals from developing nations.
Launching a Visionary Maritime Initiative
The NextWave Seafarers Project was officially launched with the signing of a Letter of Agreement between Mr. Kamal M. Al Junaidi, Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the IMO, and Mr. Jose Matheickal, Director of the Technical Cooperation and Implementation Division (TCID) of IMO. The signing ceremony was witnessed by IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez and attended by senior representatives from the Transport General Authority (TGA) of KSA and Bahri Shipping Line.
A Game-Changer for Global Seafarer Training and Recruitment
Scheduled to run from 2025 to 2026, the NextWave Seafarers Project will provide 20 cadets from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with a year-long onboard training program through Bahri Shipping Line, one of Saudi Arabia’s premier maritime companies. The project aims to establish a scalable training model that can be implemented globally, encouraging broader participation from countries and shipping firms.
Key Objectives of the Project
- Develop a sustainable, onboard cadet-training framework to nurture, upskill, and retain future seafarers.
- Remove key barriers preventing LDCs and SIDS cadets from entering the maritime industry, particularly those related to training opportunities and financial constraints.
- Promote gender diversity by actively encouraging the participation of women cadets.
- Establish the initiative as a scalable pilot model that can be expanded and replicated worldwide.
- Addressing a Global Workforce Challenge
With 1.9 million seafarers responsible for moving over 80% of global trade, the maritime industry is grappling with a pressing workforce challenge, particularly a shortage of qualified officers. As maritime transport demands continue to rise, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals is crucial.
The NextWave Seafarers initiative, through its collaborative framework between IMO, Member States, and shipping companies, provides a proactive solution by creating structured career pathways and fostering a new generation of maritime professionals.
IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez emphasized the initiative’s impact:“The future of the global shipping industry depends on its people, and this initiative has the potential to transform maritime careers for young seafarers worldwide.”
Mr. Kamal M. Al Junaidi, Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the IMO, highlighted the project’s broader vision:“Through this initiative, we aim not only to train the next generation of seafarers but also to lead and inspire other nations and shipping companies to adopt similar programs.”
A Call to Action: Expanding Global Participation
The NextWave Seafarers Project invites IMO Member States, training institutions, and shipping companies to collaborate in expanding this initiative to build a skilled, diverse, and resilient maritime workforce.
As a proof of concept, the project’s outcomes will be shared with the IMO Member States to shape future policy recommendations, refine global seafarer training frameworks, and contribute to long-term workforce planning.
IMO will issue a circular letter to Member States outlining the criteria for cadet nominations from LDCs and SIDS, detailing the selection process and participation requirements. By fostering international collaboration, the NextWave Seafarers Project aims to set a new standard for maritime workforce development, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the industry.
