In February, we participated in the 12th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Sub‑Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 12), alongside the second Intersessional Working Group supporting its work (ISWG-STCW 2).
Anglo-Eastern’s representatives, Aalok Sharma, Group Director of Training, and Vinayak Mohla, Head of Cadet Recruitment & Competency Management, also representing Global Maritime Education and Training Association (GlobalMET), contributed to discussions focused on enhancing maritime training, strengthening global competency frameworks and ensuring seafarers are equipped with the skills needed for an increasingly complex and evolving operating environment.
Key topics and takeaways at the HKW-12 session included:
- Finalisation of draft interim guidelines to support seafarer training on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol and ammonia as fuel, alongside a work plan to develop further guidance on alternative fuels and new technologies.
- Advancement of a comprehensive review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), with particular attention given to future training requirements in areas such as cybersecurity, ballast water management, and the prevention of violence, harassment and bullying at sea.
- Validation of three IMO model courses covering Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities, Chemical Tanker Cargo and Ballast Handling Simulator, and Oil Tanker Cargo and Ballast Handling Simulator.
- Identification of reference documents to support further work on seafarer fatigue and work‑rest hours, including underlying causes and the effectiveness of existing regulations.
Through active engagement in international forums, Anglo-Eastern continues to work alongside regulators, industry peers and stakeholders to help shape a safer, more resilient and future‑ready maritime community.
