(IOI-SA). The course is aimed at strengthening multidisciplinary ocean governance across the continent and building a network of “ocean ambassadors” equipped to contribute and promote responsible, knowledge-based ocean governance across Africa. It is a cornerstone of the Global Maritime Forum to bring together key industry leaders with policymakers, experts, NGOs and other influential decision makers and opinion shapers to develop new solutions to some of the most pressing issues that the global maritime industry is facing. SAIMI is part of the discussions that are taking place within the Global Maritime Forum which are focused on shipping decarbonisation. These are centred around the following action areas: •
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The maritime industry accelerating the development, testing and demonstration of the technologies and business models needed to make Zero Emission Vessels (ZEVs) the dominant, competitive choice by 2050. The stakeholders across the maritime ecosystem working together to put in place a supporting policy framework to go beyond the tipping point and stimulate the diffusion of these new technologies.
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Ensuring that maritime decarbonisation is inclusive and provides real benefits for developing countries. Other issues under consideration include, amongst others, the impact of demographic changes, digitalisation and decarbonisation on the future of seafaring.
Q. Do you have exciting plans for the future?
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International and Industry collaborations;
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Promoting the inclusion of new entrants - youth and women;
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Support for enterprise development in the oceans economy;
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Development of courses and Short Learning Programmes (SLP’s) for sustainability. n
A. A strong future focus of SAIMI is harnessing Community of Practices with industry 4.0 technological innovations to grow the maritime sector on the continent. SAIMI’s strategic focus on maritime research, development, innovation and knowledge management will ensure the future contribution of innovation to economic growth in the maritime sector. SAIMI’s Marine Robotics Centre is expected to serve as a catalyst and make a meaningful contribution in this regard. Other plans underway include: •
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46 | Public Sector Leaders | October 2021
The implementation of the recommendations made through the Skills Audits conducted by SAIMI (compilation of some Skills Audits is still underway;) The support of Maritime Education and Training within TVETs and promoting increased participation thereof;
SAIMI’s New National Headquarters Launch
Contact: Address: Ocean Sciences Campus, Gomery Avenue, Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth, South Africa Tel: +27 41 504 4038 Website: saimi.co.za
