MPA renews SMU tie-up as maritime talent race intensifies

Maritime training links expand as Singapore and China align on digital and green shipping capabilities.

Singapore has renewed its maritime talent and knowledge partnership with Shanghai Maritime University (SMU), strengthening cooperation in maritime capability development as the sector navigates digitalisation, decarbonisation and evolving port operations.

Under the renewed agreement, Singapore and SMU will continue structured exchanges between academia and maritime professionals, according to a press release.

This includes study visits, learning journeys, and joint training programmes covering maritime safety and security, energy, port management, navigational technologies, and marine environmental management.

The arrangement is set out in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and SMU, focusing on maritime education, professional exchange, and joint training programmes.

The agreement was signed by MPA chief executive Ang Wee Keong and SMU president Chu Beiping.

The partnership, established in 2020, includes exchanges of students and maritime professionals, as well as participation in seminars and knowledge-sharing platforms.

It also supports exposure to developments in maritime safety, digitalisation, and decarbonisation across Singapore and China.

Since 2023, both sides have expanded cooperation through maritime leadership programmes and participation in high-level forums shaping maritime policy across China and ASEAN.

Ang said the partnership provides access to SMU expertise in maritime safety, digitalisation, and decarbonisation, strengthening capabilities through shared experience.

Beiping said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to maritime education and international exchange amidst industry shifts towards digitalisation and green low-carbon development.

The MOU also provides for continued academic exchange, professional visits between Singapore and Shanghai, and joint capability development programmes.