A shortage of qualified Ni-Vanuatu seafarers has prompted maritime authorities to strengthen training programmes and develop new pathways for young people to enter the maritime industry.

The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA), Vanuatu Maritime College (VMC) and other key stakeholders are also preparing to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer for the Maritime College to help drive reforms and support long-term workforce development.

Speaking to VBTC News, Acting Maritime Commissioner Hickson Siba said one of the key priorities is upgrading maritime training to meet international standards and increase the number of local seafarers working in the industry.

“VMSA, VMC and the Vanuatu Qualifications Authority are working together to upgrade the maritime college curriculum so it meets international seafarer training standards. 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. At the moment, there are only a few Ni-Vanuatu working in the sector,” Mr Siba said.

He said the new CEO will play a critical role in implementing the long-term strategy aimed at strengthening local maritime training and increasing employment opportunities for Ni-Vanuatu seafarers.

Mr Siba added that VMSA has been working closely with the Maritime College to address workforce shortages and build a stronger maritime sector for the future.

“For many years, we depended on foreign scholarships for maritime training. Today, the Government is supporting scholarships that allow our seafarers to train in Vietnam. Some students are already studying there after leaving last year, and the programme is expected to continue,” he said.

“VMSA will continue advocating at the highest levels of Government to secure funding and encourage more young people to join the maritime industry and pursue careers at sea.”

Mr Siba said addressing the shortage of seafarers will require collaboration between VMSA, the Maritime College, government agencies and industry stakeholders.

He said building the capacity of local seafarers is essential to meeting the needs of the maritime industry and reducing reliance on foreign workers in the future.

The appointment of a new CEO for the Vanuatu Maritime College is expected to support these efforts and help guide the next phase of maritime training and workforce development in Vanuatu.