MARACAD to Focus on Training in Dubai

Three of the maritime industry’s most respected global professional bodies have announced their commitment to September’s Maritime Academic Conference and Expo in Dubai, demonstrating the priority they are giving to regional education and training needs.

The Nautical Institute, the Institute of Marine Engineering Science and Technology and the Royal Institution of Naval Architects have confirmed participation in MARACAD - which will be staged September 20th–21st September at Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE.

His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the UAE Minister of Public Works Chairman of The Federal Transport Authority – Land and Maritime, said that MARACAD offered a vital opportunity for regional and global academies, institutes and wider maritime interests focusing on ‘the human element’ to work towards common goals.

“MARACAD has evolved into a permanent strategic platform enabling the exchange of information, ideas and opinions on the human resources which are the fundamental pillars pushing the advancement of the maritime sector’s growth both locally and regionally,” the Minister said. “The event is expected to expand the horizons of maritime education and training.”

The high caliber conference program will include a contribution from Captain John Lloyd, Chief Operating Officer, The Nautical Institute, focusing on the need to further develop the industry’s Dynamic Positioning Operator (DP) qualification for consistency.

“The opportunity to utilize DP for a wider range of vessels has created both an opportunity and a challenge for the maritime sector as it seeks to recognize experience gained while ensuring the application of these skills is tailored to specific operational requirements,” he said. “MARACAD offers an ideal opportunity to raise awareness on the continuing work The Nautical Institute is doing to advance standards in emergent specialist sectors.”

Organized by Cham Events, MARACAD attracts strong support from within the region, with Dubai Maritime City Authority confirming that it will act as event sponsor for the second time, as part of its ‘Investing in the Human Element’ strategy.

Amer Ali, CEO of Dubai Maritime City Authority, said: “Dubai Maritime City Authority is keen on sponsoring the Maritime Academic Conference and Expo, because investment in human resources is one of the most prominent priorities that DMCA seeks to achieve.”

“The conference will shed light on how to unite the efforts of all those who are involved in the maritime industry, in order to prepare young generation for maritime jobs in the near future, and to develop the industry to attract and encourage talent and competence.

“The conference will also seek to put an end to the traditional methods used in Maritime education and training, utilizing creative ideas to promote change and new innovative technologies. The event emphasizes the importance of strengthening the educational infrastructure and building effective strategic partnerships with academic institutions in the region."