WMU Alumni Webinar Reflects on Groundbreaking Train-the-Trainer Programme on Alternative Fuels
The World Maritime University (WMU) hosted a dynamic alumni webinar on 28 May, offering firsthand insights from the world’s first IMO-WMU Train-the-Trainer Programme on Alternative Fuels. The webinar highlighted key lessons learned from the groundbreaking workshop held earlier this year at the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre (MTCC) Asia in Shanghai, China.
The webinar, titled "Lessons Learned from the Train-the-Trainer on Alternative Fuels at MTCC Asia", built upon the success of the five-day programme that took place from 14 to 18 April 2025. Commissioned by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and implemented by WMU in collaboration with MTCC Asia at Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), the initiative marked a milestone in advancing global maritime decarbonization efforts.
The webinar presenters shared reflections on the comprehensive curriculum, which included scenario-based exercises, hands-on demonstrations, and micro-teaching sessions aimed at equipping trainers to deliver high-quality education to seafarers and shore-based personnel.
Professor Momoko Kitada and Professor Aykut I. Ölcer of WMU led discussions during the webinar, joined by alumni who participated in the Shanghai training. They underscored the urgency of preparing the maritime workforce for the transition to cleaner energy sources, in line with IMO’s decarbonization goals.
“The Train-the-Trainer programme is not just about technology—it’s about empowering people,” said Professor Kitada. “By developing a network of skilled trainers, we are laying the foundation for a just transition that leaves no seafarer behind.”
The April training brought together participants from across Asia, including both IMO-funded and self-funded attendees, representing government agencies, maritime academies, shipping companies, and NGOs. Notably, representatives from the Maritime Just Transition Task Force, including the UN Global Compact, the International Chamber of Shipping, and the International Transport Workers’ Federation, were also involved.
Webinar attendees praised the collaborative model of the Train-the-Trainer initiative and discussed strategies for replicating and scaling the programme in other regions. The session concluded with a call to action for alumni and industry leaders to continue championing sustainable shipping through education, innovation, and cross-sector cooperation.
To access the recorded webinar, click here.
The webinar speakers included:
Moderators
Professor Momoko Kitada, Head of Maritime Education & Training, WMU
Professor Aykut I. Ölcer, Nippon Foundation Chair, Director of Maritime Research, Head of Maritime Energy Management, WMU
Panelists
Professor Ruan Wei, Head, MTCC Asia; Director of the International Office; and Dean of the International Education College of Shanghai Maritime University (WMU alumnus)
Ms. Kjersti Aass, Head, Maritime Just Transition Task Force (UN Global Compact)
Professor Dimitrios Dalaklis, Maritime Safety & Environmental Administration, WMU
Professor Dong Cheng, Maritime Energy Management, World Maritime University
Associate Professor Inga Bartusevičienė, Maritime Education & Training, WMU
Lecturer Anne Pazaver, Maritime Education & Training, WMU
Mr. Saroukanoff Armeen, Lecturer & Researcher, Antwerp Maritime Academy
Mr. Yoo Hyoungsoo, Professor, Korea Institute of Maritime and Fisheries Technology
Ms. Pan Sisi, Deputy Director of Seafarers Management Department, Guangdong Maritime Safety Administration
