By: Mdpn. Francis Baldemor

International instructor standard that requires regular ship experience or training, along with the implementation of regulated digital platforms for student access to shipping materials.

This was the message of a John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) representative, who spoke before industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers at the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) Student Forum held at London, United Kingdom (UK), last July 11-13.

D/C Franzesca Mari B. Bautista, a recent alumna of the Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation from JBLFMU-Arevalo was one of the 45 students from 34 different countries who participated in the event.

In the forum, D/C Bautista and her group highlighted the gaps regarding Maritime Education and Training (MET) in the Digital Era pursuant to the 2023 World Maritime Day themed “Marpol at 50 – Our Commitment Goes On.”

“There should be an international standard for instructors since the basis for their competency is only a guideline set by IMO instead of being a mandatory qualification for competency,” D/C Bautista emphasized in her eight-page IAMU Student Forum report.

She added in her report that to address this gap, instructors should have to use their license at least once a year or take regular training on ships.

Moreover, D/C Bautista stated that the inability to keep up with rapid technological advancements is due to a lack of equipment and inaccessible digital platforms.

“A proposed use of funds, notably the Integrated Technology Cooperation Program (ITCP) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) should be prioritized, “ she noted.

Furthermore, other students spoke about topics regarding greener shipping, gender equity and diversity, working and living conditions at sea, and marine resource protection.

Following their IAMU presentation, students visited the Greenwich Observatory and Maritime Museum, a maritime district in the UK.

“I am thankful to my JBLFMU community, especially to Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, Capt. Alfred G. Espinosa, Dr. Brian Sarinas, C/M Virmari S. Tan, 2/M Aldin Turija, Mrs. Dayhene Miranda, my family, friends, schoolmates, and those who extended their mentorship and help to me," D/C Bautista ended.

D/C Bautista was one of the former Editors-in-Chief of The Dolphin, JBLFMU-Arevalo's Official Student Publication, for Academic Year (AY) 2022-2023.

The IAMU Student Forum featured a two-day workshop and a one-day technical tour to discuss issues in the maritime industry.

 

LINK TO “THE DOLPHIN” POST:

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=761093062694564&set=a.477285061075367