The maritime industry is screaming out for skilled seafarers, and the traditional talent pool is drying up faster than a sailor’s rum ration on a long voyage. With the working-age population of traditional seafaring nations set to decline, companies are scrambling to diversify their crew pools. Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has just thrown down the gauntlet, opening a new Maritime Training Centre (MTC) in Ghana. This isn’t just a drop in the bucket; it’s a significant step towards addressing the industry’s talent crisis.
BSM’s new MTC, nestled on the campus of the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra, is more than just a training facility. It’s a statement, a commitment to the region, and a strategic move to tap into Africa’s vast potential. With 1.5 billion people and a combined Nominal GDP of USD 2.8 trillion, Africa is a growth market that’s too big to ignore. And with a young, rapidly growing population, it’s a goldmine for the next generation of seafarers.
BSM isn’t new to the African scene. They’ve been investing in African seafarers for over a decade, growing their West African crew pool from a mere 30 to a whopping 600. This new MTC is their sixth training institution, and it’s clear they’re not messing around. The centre offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theory with hands-on experience, focusing on vocational exposure and training for cadets, officers, ratings, and even hospitality crew for cruise ships.
Eva Rodriguez, HR Marine Director at BSM, puts it bluntly, “At BSM, we place emphasis on the selection, development and management of our seagoing employees which is key to the safe and efficient operations of the vessels of our clients.” She continues, “With the opening of the new MTC in Ghana, BSM has taken a significant step towards enhancing its training offering to seafarers from the region and cultivating highly skilled professionals who deliver the highest levels of performance.”
But this isn’t just about BSM. This move is a wake-up call to the entire maritime industry. It’s a challenge to think beyond the usual suspects, to look at Africa not just as a market, but as a source of talent. It’s a reminder that diversification isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about survival in an industry facing a massive skills shortage.
The new MTC is certified to ISO 9001-2015 standards, offering DNV approved simulator trainings and addressing operational, safety, and environmental training needs. It’s not just about churning out seafarers; it’s about equipping them with the skills to thrive in an evolving industry.
This move by BSM is a game-changer. It’s a bold step towards addressing the industry’s talent crisis and a clear signal that Africa is a region to watch. It’s a challenge to the status quo, a call to action for other companies to follow suit. The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and BSM has just taken a significant step forward. The question is, who will follow?
