Attract, Retain, Sustain: ISWAN Seminar Puts Seafarers, Families at the Centre of Discussion

Mumbai:

Port Wings News Network:

The ISWAN – India Seminar 2025, held on 17 December in Mumbai, brought together seafarers, cadets, ratings, families, industry leaders, government representatives, training institutes, and welfare organisations to explore practical ways to strengthen wellbeing and improve retention across the maritime sector.

Centred on the theme “Attract, Retain, Sustain: Supporting the Wellbeing of Seafarers and their Families,” the seminar focused on key transition points in a seafarer’s career, from the first voyage to long-term retention. Through panel discussions, programme launches, and direct conversations with seafarers and families, the event highlighted the importance of structured induction, strong shore-based support, and meaningful family engagement in building a resilient and future-ready maritime workforce.

The session opened with Deepak Shetty, IRS (Retd.), Former Secretary to the Government of India, Former Director General of Shipping, and ISWAN Trustee, who welcomed participants and set the context for the day. Drawing on his extensive experience, he emphasised the importance of early career support, structured induction, and family engagement in improving retention and sustaining long-term wellbeing in the maritime workforce.

Dr. Malini V. Shankar, IAS (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, Indian Maritime University (IMU), joined as Guest of Honour and highlighted the role of maritime education and training institutions in preparing future-ready seafarers. She stressed the need for holistic preparation that balances technical competence with emotional resilience, ethical practice, and family awareness, particularly for young cadets entering the industry.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Guest, Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, Government of India, reaffirmed that seafarers’ welfare remains a clear national priority. He briefly referenced the Memorandum of Understanding between the Directorate General of Shipping and ISWAN as a framework for collaboration, and highlighted key focus areas including mental health, safety, family welfare, training, and preparing seafarers and families for life at sea.

Launch of ISWAN’s SEAS Induction Programme:

ISWAN launched the SEAS Induction Programme, created to support final-year cadets and newly joining seafarers as they transition from training institutes to life on board. Building on three years of successful SEAS sessions delivered across maritime training institutes and companies, the programme has been specifically designed for those about to sail for the first time.

Developed following extensive consultations with MTIs, shipping companies, and seafarers, the programme addresses real challenges faced during the early stages of a maritime career. It focuses on preparedness, emotional wellbeing, teamwork, and family connection, helping young seafarers begin their journey with confidence and resilience, and supporting long-term retention in the industry.

Launch of Together in Care: A Workshop for Shore Staff:

ISWAN also introduced Together in Care, a specialised workshop designed for shore staff who play a critical role in supporting seafarers and their families. The programme was developed in response to strong industry feedback highlighting the need for structured training for shore teams.

Informed by a survey of seafarers across ranks and grounded in real casework from ISWAN’s Family Outreach Programme, the workshop focuses on practical communication, psychological first aid, and resilience. It aims to strengthen trust, understanding, and effective support between shore staff, seafarers, and families.

Launch of Sailing Together: A Family Handbook to Support Seafarers at Sea and Ashore:

The session also marked the launch of Sailing Together, ISWAN’s new family handbook developed under the Family Outreach Programme. The guide recognises seafaring as a shared journey, shaped equally by life at sea and life at home.

Drawing from real experiences shared through ISWAN’s helplines and family engagements, the handbook offers practical guidance on communication, emotional wellbeing, financial planning, crisis management, and reintegration. ISWAN acknowledged Fleet Management for their collaboration and support in strengthening the accessibility and reach of this resource, reflecting a shared commitment to seafarer and family wellbeing.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by ISWAN’s Chirag Bahri, expressing sincere appreciation to all speakers, panelists, moderators, seafarers, families, cadets, and participants whose insights and engagement shaped meaningful dialogue throughout the day.