In a significant step underscoring India’s leadership in maritime welfare, professional training, and humanitarian outreach, the Sun International Institute for Tourism & Management (SIITM), in association with Osher Ship Management Pvt Ltd, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Seafarers Welfare Organisation (GSWO). The agreement extends SIITM’s charity arm to support seafarers both at ports and at sea.
This strategic collaboration focuses on advancing welfare initiatives, skill-enhancement training, and mental health support programs. It represents a holistic approach to improving the wellbeing, competence, and quality of life of seafarers serving the global maritime industry.
Recognized as one of India’s most reputed hospitality and maritime-oriented institutions, SIITM continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening seafarers’ welfare across India and international ports. The alliance will work closely with GSWO and its member organizations, including the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India), to deliver inclusive and sustainable welfare programs.
The MoU was formally signed by Dr N Reuben Paul, Chairman of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India) representing GSWO, and Mr Srikanth Jasti, Chairman & Managing Director of SIITM. Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to ethical and future-focused welfare initiatives, while enhancing professional excellence among merchant seafarers and hospitality crew serving shipping, cruise, offshore, and oilfield industries.
SIITM’s graduates are already serving with distinction in merchant fleets, international cruise lines, luxury yachts, and offshore catering services worldwide. Through this partnership, the Institute will contribute its expertise in management and hospitality training to support capacity building, career advancement, and skill development for seafarers and maritime hospitality personnel.
Demonstrating strong social responsibility, Mr. Srikanth Jasti has also extended a donation of INR 25 Lakhs to the Seafarers Welfare Organisation and affiliated bodies. This contribution will directly strengthen initiatives focused on mental health, dignity, rights, and wellbeing of seafarers across international waters.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Reuben Paul described the MoU as a milestone in advancing global seafarers’ welfare by combining compassionate service with professional training excellence. Mr. Jasti reaffirmed SIITM’s long-standing commitment to standing with the global seafaring community and contributing meaningfully to their welfare and professional growth.
This partnership is expected to create a lasting impact on seafarers and maritime hospitality crew worldwide, further reinforcing India’s role as a key contributor to global maritime welfare, education, and training excellence—with SIITM at the forefront of this noble initiative.
Marex Media