Shipping minister stresses importance of maritime education

Deputy Minister of Shipping Marina Hadjimanolis recently highlighted the importance of maritime education while speaking at the ceremony of the Merchant Marine Academy of Chios.

During her speech, which took place on September 7, Hadjimanoli said that “our seafarers are the backbone of global shipping,” and stressed that “the main aim of the Deputy Ministry is to ensure that all ships operate efficiently and safely”,

“Our support to maritime professions, through actions and encouraging young people to love the sea, is a given,” she said, pointing out that modernising shipping curricula is essential to train the next generation of maritime professionals.  

However, this, she explained, can only be done with “coordination and cooperation between the academic community and the maritime industry”.

Hadjimanolis also touched on how the fast-paced developments in shipping have increased the demand for highly trained professionals, both at sea and onshore.  

In response to this need, she mentioned, Cyprus approved three maritime academies in 2016, including one in Greece.

These academies, she explained, are overseen by the Deputy Ministry to ensure they meet strict safety standards and follow international regulations.

In addition, Hadjimanolis expressed pride in Cyprus for recognising the Merchant Marine Academy of Chios, run by the Maria Tsakos Foundation, for its training programmes. 

On a personal note, she thanked Captain Panayiotis Tsakos for his dedication to maritime education.

“I am particularly pleased that it was Cyprus that approved the naval academy you envisioned creating in your place of origin, Chios,” she said.

Hadjimanoli reaffirmed Cyprus’ continued support for global shipping saying that “from today, the heart of Cyprus beats in Chios”.

Finally, addressing the students, Hadjimanolis encouraged them to embrace the opportunities presented to them.