The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is intensifying its efforts to equip seafarers with the necessary skills for the shipping industry’s monumental energy transition. This move is crucial to ensure maritime personnel are properly trained to work safely on ships utilizing zero or near-zero emission fuels, aligning with the IMO’s revised strategy to drastically cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships.
To establish an international standard for preparing the global seafaring workforce, the IMO has issued Generic interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies (STCW 7/ Circ. 25). These guidelines provide a foundational framework for the development and approval of training programs for seafarers serving on all vessels embracing new technologies and alternative fuels.
The IMO is currently developing fuel- and technology-specific interim training guidelines for a range of emerging power sources, including methyl/ethyl alcohol, ammonia, hydrogen, LPG, battery-powered ships, and fuel cells. These crucial, detailed guidelines are scheduled for consideration by the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 12) in February 2026.
These interim guidelines are expected to serve as the basis for mandatory requirements for seafarer training under the revised 1978 STCW Convention Code. The Code is currently undergoing a comprehensive review to integrate support for decarbonization, digitalization, and other industry advancements.
Alongside regulatory development, the IMO is actively expanding its technical support and capacity-building initiatives for Member States. Key ongoing projects include:
Instructor Training: A three-year project, funded by Japan, focused on training instructors from Asian countries in the operation of LNG-fuelled ships.
Curriculum Development: A significant partnership with the World Maritime University (WMU) to produce essential training materials for seafarers on alternative fuels. This work also contributed to the training frameworks launched by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force in September.
Local Course Development: Support through the GreenVoyage2050 Programme for trainers in developing countries to create locally relevant courses and online learning modules.
Knowledge Exchange: Hosting platforms, such as a recent seminar in Singapore, to connect regulators and practitioners and showcase practical training innovations, ranging from simulators and VR tools to practical methanol firefighting exercises.
Through the establishment of new training standards, enhanced technical support for Member States, and closer engagement with industry and academia, the IMO is actively laying the groundwork for a just and well-prepared energy transition for the world’s seafarers. This proactive approach ensures safety and competency remain paramount as the global fleet transitions toward a sustainable, low-carbon future.
