The recently published BIMCO/ICS Manpower Report has given the maritime industry warning that the global shortage of deck and engineer officers is set to grow over the next decade, with research estimating the current shortfall in seafarer officer numbers as 16,500 rising to 92,000 by 2020.
In response, ICS Secretary General, Peter Hinchliffe commented, "Without continuing efforts to promote careers at sea and improve levels of recruitment and retention, the report suggests it cannot be guaranteed that there will be an abundant supply of seafarers in the future."
With this year’s theme for Seafarers Awareness Week (June 20-26), being Maritime Jobs for Future Generations, there has never been a more timely campaign to promote U.K. maritime job opportunities, both at sea and ashore. Raising young children's knowledge of the U.K.'s ongoing 'island nation' dependence on seafarers, and showcasing careers to the next generation, the week combines activities across the U.K., highlighting the industry and uniting the sector.
Nick Harvey, Campaigns Manager, Seafarers UK, organizers of the week, said, "The report highlights the need to continually raise awareness of maritime jobs to ensure future seafarer supply. As part of the global maritime industry, the U.K. will not only benefit from the increasing number of future job opportunities for professionally-trained British seafarers, but by offering its range of world-class maritime training colleges to the wider global industry."