π’πˆππ” 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐒𝐭𝐒𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐨π₯π₯𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐀𝐞𝐑𝐨π₯𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐚π₯ πƒπšπ² 𝐨𝐟 π’πžπšπŸπšπ«πžπ«

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 π‘πžπ₯𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞

πŸπŸ”-πŸŽπŸ”-πŸπŸŽπŸπŸ’

 

Capt.Diana Hills, DPM Bradley Tovosia and Capt.Samuel Sautehi cut the cake to mark the event.

 

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Maritime College and its stakeholders celebrated the International Day of Seafarers day on 25 June 2024. The event was celebrated at the SINU Maritime College at the Ranadi Campus with the theme, β€œOur Seafaring Future.”

Speaking at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Bradley Tovosia highlighted the important role that seafarers play both globally and locally.

β€œWe come together to recognize the important role that seafarers play in global trade, the world economy, and our everyday life,” he said. β€œThe Solomon Islands is a nation of many islands and has a deep connection to the sea.”He emphasized that seafaring is not just a job but a tradition and a way of life passed down from ancestors. β€œThis day gives us a chance to pay tribute to seafarers around the world for the crucial role they play in maritime global trade.”

The Deputy Prime Minister congratulated seafarers and SINU for hosting the event, noting that in the Solomon Islands, the role of seafarers is more important than ever in connecting people, islands, and trade.

Also speaking during the event was Acting Vice Chancellor Dr. Eric Katovai, who said SINU is deeply committed to preparing the next generation of maritime professionals.

β€œToday’s gathering holds significance as we come together to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of seafarers worldwide,” he said. β€œThe Solomon Islands, with its rich maritime heritage and vast oceanic expanses, deeply understands the pivotal role that seafarers play in connecting our islands, facilitating trade locally, nationally, regionally, and globally.”

β€œAt SINU, we are deeply committed to preparing the next generation of maritime professionals,” he continued. β€œOur maritime college strives to provide holistic education and training that goes beyond technical proficiency, emphasizing the development of leadership qualities, a sense of responsibility, and a strong commitment to environmental stewardship among our students.”

β€œThe theme of this year’s International Day of Seafarers, β€˜Our Seafaring Future,’ underscores our shared commitment to nurturing a sustainable and prosperous maritime industry. It challenges us to innovate, adapt, and continually improve our educational offerings to meet the evolving needs of the maritime sector.”

β€œAs we celebrate the dedication and resilience of our seafarers today, it is essential to acknowledge the formidable challenges they face, especially in the aftermath of the global pandemic. Despite these adversities, seafarers have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination, ensuring the continued delivery of essential goods not only across the globe but also to our local shores here in the Solomon Islands and among our islands.”

β€œHowever, alongside honouring their achievements, we must also recognize the ongoing gaps in safeguarding their well-being and rights,” he added. β€œIssues such as prolonged time at sea, difficulties with crew changes, and the need for enhanced mental support remain pressing concerns that demand our unwavering attention and collective action.”

Furthermore, Dr. Katovai stated that SINU is steadfast in its commitment to tackling these challenges through advocacy, educational initiatives, and collaborative partnerships with industries, stakeholders, and government agencies.

β€œI wish to express my profound gratitude to all seafarers,” he said. β€œMay this International Day of Seafarers be a source of inspiration and renewed commitment to the maritime community. Let us all sail forward, guided by the courage and dedication of seafarers.”

Also speaking at the event was the Solomon Islands Ports Authority CEO Eranda Kotelawala, who highlighted the importance of reviving and rebuilding the SINU Maritime College for seafarers and the future generation of maritime professionals in the country.

Representatives from the Solomon Islands Ports Authority, Solomon Islands Maritime Transport Association, Solomon Islands Maritime Authority, and the Japanese Ambassador to the Solomon Islands, Miwa Yoshiaki, also attended the event.

The event began with a welcome remark from the Director, Dr. Teorae Kabure, followed by official speeches, entertainment, and demonstrations by SINU Maritime College students.

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