MCA launches digital overhaul of seafarer certification to boost skills and global recognition
At the recent British Tugowners Association Annual Conference in Belfast, Ajit Jacob, the chief examiner at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), outlined a pivotal transformation in seafarer certification aimed at modernising the industry’s approach to training and competency evaluation. Jacob emphasised that while the core responsibilities of seafarers have remained largely unchanged, the technological landscape in which they operate has evolved significantly. This overhaul of the restricted Certificates of Competency (COCs) is designed to create smoother pathways for career advancement, eliminating the fragmented qualifications that have historically hindered seafarers’ professional mobility.
Central to this reform is a digital transformation that replaces traditional pen-and-paper examinations with innovative scenario-based assessments. Candidates will now be assessed on practical skills relevant to contemporary maritime operations, such as digital chart passage planning and collision avoidance interpretation, moving away from rote memorisation of outdated protocols. This shift not only reflects the realities of modern vessel operation but also enhances the relevance of training to current industry needs. Jacob noted the success of simulator training, which has been met with overwhelming approval; post-pilot feedback indicated that 95% of participants were surprised they hadn’t adopted this method sooner.
The MCA’s new framework also aligns with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention, which is pivotal for ensuring international recognition of qualifications. The agency's proactive stance on inclusivity is evident in the utilization of apprenticeship levy funds to alleviate financial barriers associated with certification costs, improving accessibility for aspiring seafarers. Moreover, the incorporation of specialised training for emerging technologies like electric propulsion and hydrogen systems showcases a commitment to addressing the maritime industry's decarbonisation challenges while simultaneously expanding UK employment opportunities across diverse vessel types.
In another development, the MCA is collaborating with PDMS to establish a centralised online system for managing short course data, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of seafarer training management. This integrated approach not only streamlines auditing processes but also optimises workload forecasting and examiner allocation, reflecting a modernisation agenda that resonates throughout the maritime sector.
This initiative aligns with broader international efforts to modernise seafarer training and certification, as UK leadership in this domain is recognised globally. The MCA's work complements initiatives such as the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the International Chamber of Shipping, Lloyd’s Register OneOcean, and the Philippine Maritime Industry Authority, which seeks to pilot a digital certification system designed to alleviate the burdens associated with paper-based processes.
As the maritime sector continues to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, the shift towards a more agile and modernised certification system not only empowers seafarers but also strengthens the maritime industry’s commitment to safer and greener shipping practices across the globe. Jacob optimistically concluded that the changes implemented in the UK could serve as a template for global maritime training advancements, ultimately benefiting seafarers and shipping companies alike.