Dr. Martin Henkelmann, Executive Director of German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI)

The importance and responsibility attributed to marine jobs are demonstrated by the obligations to regularly refresh knowledge and to constantly embrace new skills. An essential element of every education and training is that the skills are recognised and certified. In light of COVID and in an international context like the one where seafarers work, an accepted proof of a course, training and class is even more vital.

The importance and responsibility attributed to marine jobs are demonstrated by the obligations to regularly refresh knowledge and to constantly embrace new skills. An essential element of every education and training is that the skills are recognised and certified. In light of COVID and in an international context like the one where seafarers work, an accepted proof of a course, training and class is even more vital.

Mr. Jesper Svenningsen, Executive Director of Nordic Chamber Philippines

Automation, digitalisation and education are crucial to be successful in the future. Our intention is to help overseas Filipino workers to gain the right skills and employment in the Nordics. For us, the quality of the skills possessed by skilled workers is critical. To ensure quality, transparency and traceability of skills, we are looking at using blockchain technology – as it also helps in preventing fraud.

Mr. Aniceto “John” Bertiz III, Deputy Director-General of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) should not be recognised as heroes but as leaders. We aim to shift from being passive beneficiaries of goods and services to actively creating wealth and opportunities for OFWs. Taking an end-to-end approach, TESDA is empowering OFWs and seafarers through skills development, capacity building and training via programs such as Kaalaman (knowledge), Kakayahan (skills, capacity) and Kabuhayan (livelihood).

Chief Engineer Artemio V. Serafico, President of TSM Maritime Services Philippines

About 90% of the world trade is carried out by ships. Without shipping intercontinental trade, transport of raw material and import/export of affordable goods are impossible. 25% of the world’s fleet are Filipinos and travel restriction due COVID has created multiple hurdles for seafarers. To tackle these hurdles, we are providing several online services, ensuring that seafarers are safe.

Mr. Joel B. Maglunsod, Executive Director, National Maritime Polytechnic, LEYTE

To strengthen the resiliency of the maritime industry, we believe nations will have to work with each other. Capability building of seafarers through distance learning platforms will ensure an adequate supply of competent and competitive seafarers. National Maritime Polytechnic will start to offer, this quarter, online courses. And, ram up the development of online and blended learning platforms for mandatory training programs. View the full video here.

Mr. Dave Napier, Global Product Manager, HSE, TÜV Rheinland Group 

The underlying issue that needs to be addressed globally is that seafarers need the right training. In addition, he said that the training programs need to be simple and accessible. One way to simplify complexity is by offering digital safety systems, making safety training more engaging with the right tools. Also, bringing universal HSE standards and procedures via ISO 45001 while keeping in line with the International Marine Organisation (IMO) will help in tackling global health and safety failures.

Mr. Pons Asidera Growth Partner at SkillBean Inc.

SkillBean creates learning journeys to help professionals upskill, making them competitive and increasing their chances of employability. SkillBean not only focuses on providing the right training but also a certification, allowing professionals to prove their skills. Furthermore, Dave provides insightful steps on how to define learning and development goals while waiting for the market to stabilise, watch the video to find out yourself.

Mr. Timothy Miller,  Founder of Certif-ID

Certif-ID aims at building an inclusive learning and development platform dedicated to the Filipino seafarers. Where they can gain guidance on upskilling and career pathways. Digitise their portfolios using SkillPass and differentiate themselves in the employment market. SkillPass brings forward information and transparency i.e., owned and available to an individual to make informed decisions about what learning is important and how it will benefit in career development.

Ms. Katerina Ananiadou, UNESCO

There is a lack of global skill recognition framework. To recognise qualifications within and across borders, UNESCO along with a wide range of global partners are working on the World Reference Levels (WRLs). WRL is a tool that aims to assist organisations and individuals in understanding and recognising qualifications and credentials coming from different contexts. It sets a benchmark that can be used internationally to understand qualifications across multiple sectors and disciplines, facilitating the mobility of workers and learners.

Ms. Trixie Whyte Founder & Chairperson Q2 Group of Companies

Virtual platforms are now the norm in recruitment. Candidates would need to differentiate themselves and companies will need extra resources to help identify the right candidates. Digitising CVs is a trend that will continue to rise and video CV will be the new norm, acting as the differentiator. Recruitment is facing dramatic changes. And, Q2 is navigating this new normal by making technology as a partner and a prerequisite for survival.