Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has launched a two-day wellbeing training programme for final-year cadets aimed at preparing them for the mental, emotional, and social challenges of life at sea.
The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Sailors’ Society and the Seafarers Union of Kenya under the Wellness at Sea Programme spearheaded by Sailors’ Society.
The training focuses on equipping future seafarers with essential life skills, resilience, and coping mechanisms to help them manage stress and thrive in the maritime industry. Key areas covered include social, spiritual, intellectual, physical, and emotional wellness.
Speaking during the training, Wellness at Sea Africa Coordinator Daniel Taljard noted that prolonged periods away from home remain one of the biggest sources of stress for seafarers. He emphasized the need to prepare cadets psychologically before they begin their careers on board vessels.
‘By being well-informed in these areas, we create strong maritime personnel ready to beat any challenge. ’Taljard said.
Taljard also highlighted the importance of effective communication skills at sea, including the use of non-verbal communication in situations where language barriers may arise among multinational crews.
BMA Senior Careers Services Officer Samuel Dube urged cadets to fully embrace the programme, noting that the lessons shared are based on real-life experiences encountered in the maritime profession.
“The scenarios you are learning here are real, and they are exactly what you will be expecting in your careers, and this session tends to prepare you to be strong and victorious in such occasions. ’Dube Said.
Meanwhile, Seafarers Union of Kenya Chairperson Capt. Peter Munga praised the academy’s leadership, led by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Eric Katana, for introducing the initiative. He said the programme would play a significant role in strengthening the mental resilience and overall welfare of future seafarers.
The programme also incorporates financial management training to help seafarers effectively manage their earnings and avoid financial challenges while working onboard ships.
Bandari Maritime Academy reaffirmed its commitment to excellence in maritime education and the holistic development of future seafarers.
