VANUATU’S maritime authorities are launching a major push to address the critical shortage of qualified Ni-Vanuatu seafarers by upgrading training and creating new career pathways for young people.
The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA) and Vanuatu Maritime College (VMC), in partnership with key stakeholders, are moving to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer for the College to drive reforms and support long-term workforce development.
Acting Maritime Commissioner Hickson Siba said that upgrading maritime training to meet international standards is a top priority.
“VMSA, VMC and the Vanuatu Qualifications Authority are working together to upgrade the maritime college curriculum,” he said.
“With these upgrades, our seafarers will be able to meet the requirements to work on international vessels, domestic ships, and foreign vessels operating under the Vanuatu flag.”
A small number of Ni-Vanuatu work in the sector. To change this, the Government is now supporting scholarships for training in Vietnam, with students already there and the programme set to continue—a shift from past reliance on foreign scholarships.
VMSA will continue advocating at the highest levels of government to secure funding and encourage more youth to pursue careers at sea. Solving the shortage requires close collaboration between VMSA, the College, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
Building the capacity of local seafarers is seen as essential to meeting industry demands and reducing future dependence on foreign workers. The expected appointment of a new CEO for the Maritime College will be a crucial part of the next phase of training and workforce development for Vanuatu’s maritime future.
Source: VBTC
