The WaveForward project – Modernising Fisheries Training for Today’s Challenges – has been officially launched, marking the start of a new European initiative aimed at developing a common standard for basic training for fisheries across the EU.
The project brings together fisheries organisations, social partners and training and education providers across the EU, to strengthen the safety, skills and employability of fishers, while supporting a more harmonised and resilient European fisheries sector.
Officially launched in the Netherlands, the consortium discussed the future of fisheries training in Europe, including in light of the revision of international conventions for training and education (IMO STCW and STCW-F frameworks), tailored training for small-scale fisheries and the role of traditional knowledge in safety at sea. The discussions also addressed national realities, including differences in training systems and the implementation of STCW/STCW-F across Member States, with a view to bridge possible gaps.
Comparisons of existing training systems and analysing national practices across EU Member States will allow WaveForward to lay the groundwork for a shared European common basic training standard for fisheries. This aims to contribute to improved safety at sea, stronger environmental protection, enhanced employability and increased labour mobility through better mutual recognition of qualifications.
‘WaveForward reflects the importance of investing in people and skills as a cornerstone for a safer, more resilient and more competitive European fisheries sector. A common approach to basic training will help strengthen safety at sea, improve mobility and ensure that future generations are better prepared for the challenges ahead,’ said Europêche managing director Daniel Voces.
The project consortium is coordinated by Europêche and brings together ProSea Marine Education, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF), the Pelagic Freezer Trawler Association (PFA), Novikontas, Nederlandse Vissersbond (NVB), MARE Soc. Coop. a r.l., ARVI – Cooperativa de Armadores de Pesca del Puerto de Vigo, the Institut Maritime de Prévention (IMP) and EUC Nordvest.
Additionally, Europêche presented the project at the Sea Fisheries Sectoral Social Dialogue Committee meeting in Brussels in June, and outlined the project objectives and upcoming activities, including the comparative analysis of STCW and STCW-F frameworks.
WaveForward was also presented to European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis in Cyprus in June, highlighting the importance of quality jobs and attractive career pathways to support the generational renewal and long-term resilience of Europe’s fisheries sector.
