Development of human capital and formation of professional competencies in the shipping industry

The shipping industry is important for the development of the world economy. Only merchant ships around the world sail more than 50,000 units to maintain the flow of international trade, and they employ more than 1.5 million sailors representing almost all nationalities of the globe. However, in terms of the impact of modern digital technologies, Morgan Stanley defines maritime transport as a «lagging sector».To ensure the sustainability of the shipping industry, the professional community has developed international frameworks and conventions that dictate various aspects of shipping such as design, operation, staffing and training. Among other things, it is important that the vessels are managed by highly qualified sailors. The requirements of the industry for professional training are focused on the training of seafarers who can not only manage ships effectively, but also ensure the care of the environment and the safety of passengers and crew members.According to the analysts of the International Maritime Organization, the prosperity of shipping requires a highX quality, motivated and properly qualified workforce, and, therefore, it is necessary to revise and bring the education and training of seafarers in line with the changing requirements and challenges of digitalization.