IMO Open call: Shipping companies invited to join the NextWave Alliance to upskill seafarers

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is inviting shipping companies worldwide to a dedicated workshop to explore the global expansion of the NextWave Seafarers Project.

Developed with support from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Bahri Shipping Line, the NextWave Seafarers Project provides essential onboard training to cadets from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The initiative aims to develop a future-ready maritime workforce, while addressing the global seafarer shortage.

The Project has already created meaningful training placements for cadets with one of Saudi Arabia's leading maritime companies, Bahri. The next phase aims to secure further industry participation and scale the impact globally.

Call for shipping companies to join alliance

IMO will host a workshop on Thursday, 9 April 2026 at IMO Headquarters in London to share achievements and insights from the pilot phase of the NextWave Seafarers project. There will be opportunities for companies to join the NextWave Alliance by offering cadet placements, contributing to a scalable training model, and helping to build a diverse, skilled maritime workforce.

Companies will be able to:

• Learn about the project’s global vision
• Hear directly from participating cadets
• Get practical guidance on hosting cadets
• Understand application and operational requirements
• Engage in bilateral discussions with the project team

It is a unique opportunity to contribute to IMO’s efforts to support seafarers while building a strong coalition of shipping companies with a shared commitment to strengthening the next generation of seafarers.