Current challenges in maritime training
Today, a meeting was held with the management of the Maritime Technical High School (ETSM), represented by its Director, Karen Casal, Deputy Director, Dardo Anselmi, Workshop Coordinator, Charles Scangetti, and Embarkation Coordinator, Raúl Rossi. During the meeting, the Naval Engineers' Center had the opportunity to introduce itself and express its full willingness to collaborate in maritime training, sharing our experience and knowledge to convey to students what it truly means to be a naval engineer.
One of the main topics discussed was our deep concern about the potential educational reform that would affect the naval engineer career. This reform, which would involve adding another year of studies to grant a technologist title, poses serious challenges and consequences. Although it has not yet been approved, we are concerned about how this reform would negatively impact students, many of whom are children of workers and young people who, after long workdays, dedicate their time and effort to studying with the goal of improving themselves and contributing to their families.
It is important to emphasize that the ETSM fully complies with the international standards established in the STCW 78 Convention and its amendments, which has allowed its course to be recognized both nationally and internationally. Therefore, we believe that any changes in the educational structure must be carefully evaluated, taking into account the needs and realities of the students, as well as the maritime training standards that have already demonstrated their effectiveness and success.
As the Naval Engineers' Center, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the quality and accessibility of maritime training. In this regard, we urge that the well-being of the students be prioritized and that educational decisions reflect the aspirations of those who dream of a future in the maritime field, as well as the efforts of workers who, with determination, seek to improve their lives and those of their families.