Maritime experts shared their views and experiences regarding the training and competency needs of seafarers at an event held from September 14 to 18, 2026, in Lisbon. The event was attended by representatives from maritime administrations, industry, educational and training institutions, international organizations, and universities. This conference was organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) with the support of the World Maritime University (WMU).
The Necessity of Training Seafarers in the Use of New Fuels
Discussions at this event addressed the competency and training needs related to the use of alternative fuels and new technologies, including ammonia, methanol, hydrogen, batteries, and carbon capture systems on ships. Participants examined how training and competency frameworks can evolve in parallel with technological and operational developments.
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IMO's Efforts to Support the Transition to New Technologies
This event highlighted ongoing efforts at the IMO to support the transition to alternative fuels. These efforts include a comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and work on developing training regulations for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies. The importance of continued collaboration between regulatory bodies, industry, and maritime educational and training institutions to ensure that training frameworks keep pace with technological and operational developments was emphasized.
Technical visits organized by EMSA complemented the program and provided participants with insights into the practical applications of new technologies and innovative training tools. These visits included electric ships, electronic laboratories, virtual reality training facilities, and the European Maritime Awareness Center (EMAC).
This event, held under the integrated technical cooperation program of the IMO, reinforced the importance of international collaboration and dialogue to support seafarers and maritime educational institutions in embracing new fuels and technologies.
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