World Maritime Day: Unlocking the economic potential of SA's maritime sector

"A study recently conducted by the Department of Environmental Affairs estimated that if this potential is "unlocked" the maritime industry could contribute R177 billion to GDP and create up to a million jobs by 2033. Building skills within South Africa's maritime industry is, therefore, essential to reaching South Africa's economic goals and predicted job creation targets."

Jacobs says that in light of World Maritime Day on 24 September 2015, it is important to recognise the contribution that the maritime industry makes towards local and global trade, and to note that global trade is simply not possible without seafarers and the vessels on which they operate.

Training, safety and sustainability

"The theme for World Maritime Day 2015 is "Maritime education and training", and highlights the need to focus attention on the wider spectrum of maritime education and training, to ensure the development of skills and the sustainability of a safe and secure maritime industry. "Shipping is one of the most efficient and cost effective forms of cargo transportation globally, with approximately 90% of world trade transported by sea. In order to boost the ocean's economy, we need to nurture the skills of the industry."

Jacobs says that it is important to recognise the wide range of challenges, risks and demands which seafarers face when out at sea. "Safety is a matter of skills development, training and behaviour. The only way to instil an efficient and safe working environment at sea is through continuous safety and wellness training that is of high quality and standard."

Youth at sea

He says that training facilities which Maersk Group support, including the South African International Maritime Institute, South African Maritime Academy (SAMTRA) and Lawhill Maritime Centre, provide extensive training and fundamental knowledge about safety at sea.

"In order for the maritime industry to grow sustainably and contribute towards economic development, the skills of South Africa's youth needs to be developed through training facilities which provide maritime education and training to youngsters interested in careers at sea. In doing so, we can mitigate the youth skills gap in the country and improve South Africa's economic growth status."