TITLE:
Understanding the Plight and Challenges Facing South African Seafarers
AUTHORS:
Leticia Grimett
KEYWORDS:
Seafarers, Training Berths, Seafarer Placement, Global Seafarer Procurement
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Industrial and Business Management,
Vol.13 No.6,
June
30,
2023
ABSTRACT: The issue of seafarer
placement has been continually raised in the context of South African seafarers. Because of the limited domestic shipping reach, South African seafarers have had to rely upon the
international merchant navy for jobs and practical training. Given that
the global supply of seafarers is close to 2milion strong, the pool of South
African cadets and seafarers must compete with the global supply pool for jobs
and training. While the issue of training berths has been published, the sector
has been shrouded in mystery, as very little has been reported about their
experiences globally, their struggles and the opportunities available to them. In
this study, the global backdrop has been provided, together with insights about
their struggles and challenges. The paper ends with an assessment of their
placement within the changing global shipping environment and the interventions
required if they are to thrive and prosper in the changing global context.