– Adhering to the IMO methodology, 22 specific areas of the Convention and Code are to be reviewed
– Padmesh Prabhune
The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended, is an international agreement which sets the standards of competence for seafarers globally. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has begun working on the long-awaited comprehensive review of both the Convention and the Code.
Consequently, the Indian Directorate General of Shipping, in collaboration with The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) and the Institute of Marine Engineers India (IMEI), recently organized a full day workshop in a bid to navigate the evolving landscape of maritime regulations.
Mr. David Birwadkar, Chairman of IME(I), Mumbai, welcomed the dignitaries along with stalwarts at the workshop held at IRS Powai.
Shri. Shyam Jagannathan IAS, Director General of Shipping, took center stage as the esteemed Chief Guest along with Chief Surveyor Shri Ajit Kumar Sukumaran, signifying the collective commitment of the maritime community towards this transformative endeavor.
In his keynote address, Shri Shyam Jagannathan emphasized the crucial role of the STCW convention and code in setting global standards for maritime training. The comprehensive review aims to adapt existing global standards to reflect new trends, developments and challenges in the maritime sector.
Shri Ajithkumar Sukumaran, took the stage to set the tone with poignant tales from the high seas. The Chief Surveyor’s emphasis on focusing not just on wish lists, but on practical and implementable proposals was crucial for the discussions that followed.
The workshop was structured into Eight Chapters, each focusing on a specific area. For each chapter a ‘gap analysis sessions’ was held wherein groups of seasoned maritime professionals discussed existing gaps and developed solutions to address them.
Adhering to the methodology and a list of specific areas to review, as outlined by the IMO Sub-Committee, 22 specific areas of the Convention and Code are to be reviewed, including emerging technologies on ships, e-certification, mental health and gender sensitization. Further, a two-step methodology, consisting of a review of the Convention and Code to identify gaps (Phase 1) and then a revision stage to develop amendments to address those gaps, would be undertaken.
While in Phase one – Review/Identification of gaps; the Convention and Code will be reviewed regulation by regulation, and section by section (including articles), to identify gaps/provisions that should be addressed based on two criteria;
One: Issues emanating/resulting from external factors including trends and new developments. For example: use of new technological developments in ships and ship’s operations, technological advances in training, requirements from other Conventions, etc.
Two: issues emanating/resulting from existing provisions based on implementation experiences. For example, inconsistencies, differing interpretations, challenges with the interpretation, flexibility, etc.
Whereas in Phase two – Revision, amendments will be developed to address gaps identified under phase one, this second phase may result in consequential amendments to other regulations and sections.
The documents submitted for discussion under this second phase will be structured as follows: (i) Provisions and gaps identified – from the list generated in phase one, (ii)Proposed amendments; and (iii) Explanation.
Jagannathan noted, “It’s essential to understand that while we strive for progressive ideas and improvements, not all proposals may gain immediate traction at the global level. There will be debates and differing opinions within the IMO. However, we can still incorporate forward-looking thoughts into our internal training strategies to stay ahead of the curve.”
Officials from D.G Shipping, Industry experts, along with Mr. Vijay Arora, Managing Director, IRS, Mr P.K. Mishra, Joint Managing Director, IRS, Mr. Rajeev Nayyer, President of IME(I), participated in the event, while Capt. Vivek Bhandarkar, Secretary General of the CMMI, several Wardens of CMMI, and leadership of MASSA, FOSMA and INSA made vital contributions. Capt. Ajay Gangadharan, Treasurer, CMMI delivered the Vote of Thanks.
The workshop concluded with a call to action, urging stakeholders to actively participate in the review process and contribute their insights towards shaping the future of maritime training standards.
Marex Media