EPDC Delivered on Seafarer Health and Wellbeing - GEFO

On 21 September, the World Maritime University (WMU) delivered an Executive Professional Development Course (EPDC) on Seafarer Health and Well-being to a group of 25 professional staff members from Gesellschaft für Oeltransporte mbH (GEFO). The customized EPDC was designed to provide GEFO shore-based and on-board staff with insights into factors influencing the mental health and well-being of seafarers.

The EPDC was delivered by Dr Michael Manuel, WMU Professor and Head of Maritime Education and Training, and Guest Lecturer Ms Connie Gehrt, Director of Conovah ApS, who has extensive experience in occupational health & safety in the maritime industry. Specific topics addressed included workload stress, social isolation, alcohol & drug issues, interrelation between corporate practices and individual perceptions, and characteristics on health and wellbeing.

Dr. Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of WMU, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of a close relationship with the shipping industry for the University. At the close of the course, Professor Shuo Ma, WMU Vice President (International), presented EPDC certificates of completion to the participants and concluded the course.

GEFO has returned to WMU repeatedly for customized EPDCs for their employees. Previous offerings since 2014 include courses on Maritime Safety, Emergency Management According to ISM Code, Maritime Safety Management and Handling of Operational Risk, Improving the Implementation of the ISM Code, Ship Safety Management and Accident Investigation, Safety Leadership, and Safety Optimization / Human Element.

Through customized executive courses, WMU meets the educational needs and requirements of particular organizations and actively supports the commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all.