The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is officially inviting shipping companies worldwide to a dedicated workshop on Thursday, 9 April 2026, to scale the NextWave Seafarers Project into a global alliance.
Developed with the strategic support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Bahri Shipping Line, the NextWave Seafarers Project provides critical onboard training to cadets from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). As the industry grapples with a global seafarer shortage, this initiative focuses on building a diverse, future-ready workforce that leaves no maritime nation behind.
The project has already demonstrated proven results through its pilot phase with Bahri, Saudi Arabia’s leading maritime logistics provider. By securing high-quality placements for cadets, the initiative has created a blueprint for sustainable maritime education.
The upcoming London workshop marks the transition of the project into the NextWave Alliance—a coalition of industry leaders committed to providing the sea-time experience necessary for the next generation of officers to obtain their professional certifications.
The workshop will take place at the IMO Headquarters in London. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how their organizations can contribute to and benefit from this scalable training model.
Participating companies will have the opportunity to:
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Explore the Global Vision: Align corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals with IMO’s long-term workforce development strategy.
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Hear First-Hand Accounts: Gain insights from participating cadets about the impact of onboard training.
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Receive Operational Guidance: Access practical toolkits on hosting cadets, including application and regulatory requirements.
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Engage in Bilateral Talks: Meet directly with the project team to tailor participation to their fleet’s specific needs.
“This is more than a training program; it is a commitment to the resilience of the global supply chain,” the IMO stated. “By joining the NextWave Alliance, shipping companies aren’t just filling berths—they are ensuring that the digital and green transitions of the future are led by a skilled, diverse, and highly-trained workforce.”
Shipping companies interested in attending the workshop or joining the Alliance are encouraged to register through the IMO’s official portal.
