The AMET Global Maritime Awards (AGMA) 2025, held in Chennai, brought together over 1200 delegates from 15 countries, underscoring its significance as a global forum for maritime discourse. The summit, organized by the Dr. J. Ramachandran Maritime Foundation and AMET University, tackled critical issues under the theme “Sailing Towards Sustainability – Navigating the Future of the Maritime Industry.” This gathering wasn’t just another industry event; it was a clarion call for action, pushing the maritime sector to confront its most pressing challenges head-on.
The inaugural ceremony set the tone, with Capt. Mohan Naik, Director of Dynacom Tankers Management, hitting the nail on the head: “Sustainability isn’t a buzzword; it’s the lifeblood of our industry.” He stressed the need for embedding sustainability in every operation, from ship recycling to autonomous navigation. Capt. Karan Kochhar of Maersk Fleet Management echoed this sentiment, urging cadets to embody resilience and humility as future maritime leaders. The signing of an MoU between AMET University and Arizona State University marked a significant step towards integrating maritime studies with cutting-edge technologies like AI, setting a precedent for future academic collaborations.
The panel discussions were where the rubber met the road. Ms. Harjeet Kaur Joshi, former CMD of Shipping Corporation of India, moderated a session on humanities and soft skills, emphasizing that empathy and communication are just as crucial as technical expertise. “A competent officer isn’t just about technical skills; it’s about understanding people and the environment,” she asserted. The panel on legal recourses for harassment at sea, led by advocate Ms. S. Priya, highlighted the urgent need for psychologically safe environments and robust anti-harassment policies. Meanwhile, a unique panel on social media’s role in maritime sustainability, moderated by C/E Sridhar V, showcased the dual-edged impact of digital platforms, advocating for structured digital literacy in maritime training.
The technical sessions delved into curriculum innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable practices. Over 120 research papers were presented, reinforcing AMET’s role as a knowledge hub. The valedictory ceremony, graced by Mr. David Eggleston, Deputy Consul-General of Australia, saw the presentation of AGMA awards recognizing outstanding achievements in leadership, education, and innovation. Capt. Anmol Kumar Srivastava’s heroic rescue of 57 lives during the Mumbai ferry disaster earned him the AGMA Maritime Leadership Award, a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable nature.
So, what does this all mean for the future of the maritime industry? The summit made it clear that sustainability, digital transformation, and seafarer wellbeing are not just trends but imperatives. The emphasis on integrating humanities and soft skills into maritime education signals a shift towards more holistic training programs. The focus on legal frameworks and social media’s role highlights the need for a more inclusive and psychologically safe maritime environment. The collaborations and awards underscore the importance of international partnerships and innovation in driving the sector forward.
As the maritime industry navigates the choppy waters of sustainability and digital transformation, events like AGMA 2025 serve as a compass, guiding stakeholders towards a more resilient and inclusive future. The summit’s call to action is clear: the time for change is now, and it’s up to each stakeholder to play their part. The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and the path it chooses will shape the future of global trade and ocean sustainability. The ball is in our court, and the stakes have never been higher.