Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA), in collaboration with Sailors’ Society and Seafarers Union of Kenya, has successfully concluded a two-day wellbeing training programme for Cohort 1 of final-year cadets aimed at preparing them for the realities of life at sea as they transition into the maritime industry.
The intensive training programme brought together cadets for interactive sessions focused on mental health awareness, emotional resilience, stress management, and personal wellbeing while working onboard ships.
As part of the broader Wellness at Sea Programme spearheaded by Sailors’ Society, the initiative seeks to equip future seafarers with practical coping skills to help them navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges associated with long periods away from home and demanding working environments at sea.
Throughout the sessions, participants explored key pillars of wellness, including social, spiritual, intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being. Wellness at Sea Africa Coordinator Daniel Taljard emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy relationships onboard, building teamwork, managing pressure, and developing positive routines that support both personal growth and professional performance in the maritime sector.
Speaking during the training, BMA Senior Careers Services Officer Samuel Dube encouraged cadets to prioritize mental and emotional health just as much as technical competence, noting that resilience and well-being are essential for safe and productive careers at sea. The programme also provided a platform for open discussions on common challenges faced by seafarers, including isolation, fatigue, anxiety, and adapting to multicultural working environments.
The initiative reflects the shared commitment of Bandari Maritime Academy, Sailors’ Society, and the Seafarers Union of Kenya to promoting safer, healthier, and more supportive working conditions for seafarers. By investing in the well-being of cadets before they begin their careers, the partners aim to strengthen the preparedness of young maritime professionals and contribute to a more resilient workforce within the global shipping industry.
