APM Terminals Pipavav launches “Future Leaders – Foundation Program” with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University

GANDHINAGAR : APM Terminals Pipavav (GPPL), a leading gateway in India, has taken a significant step towards joining the Government of India’s visionary Skill India Mission and strengthening the country’s maritime prowess . “Future Leaders – Foundation Program” in collaboration with Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University (GMU).

This groundbreaking five-day program will revolutionize maritime learning through immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences, building on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024. Maersk Training will feature its award-winning – “Best Use of AI/AR/VR in learning and upskilling opportunities. This underlines GPPL’s ​​unwavering commitment to cultivating a future-ready, highly skilled maritime workforce and driving India’s economic growth and global competitiveness.

The recently concluded event was graced by the presence of several prominent industry leaders. The most important dignitaries included Mr. Manoj Kumar Das, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Ports and Transport Department and Revenue Department, Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar; Mr. Girish Aggarwal, Managing Director of APM Terminals at Gujarat Pipavav Port; Prof. (Dr.) S. Shanthakumar, Provost (I/C) of Gujarat Maritime University and Director of Gujarat National Law University; And Mr. Vivek Sharma, National Director of Public Affairs at AP Moller Mærsk Group. Their participation significantly enriched the work and discussions of the event.

This program transcends traditional methods and provides an immersive learning experience in maritime essentials, including fundamentals, technical skills, sustainability and real-world case studies. It enables participants to contribute to a thriving economy, a sustainable future and a stronger community. By promoting innovation exchange opportunities in countries such as the US, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Taiwan, the program creates a ‘network effect’ that opens exciting career prospects, employment opportunities and potential future exchange programs for students and participants.

The program provided aspiring maritime professionals with the following comprehensive skills in various areas:

Regulations and safety: Participants mastered MARPOL regulations, the ISM Code and ship safety procedures.

Sustainable practices: Focus on green shipping to improve the sustainability of the maritime supply chain.

Logistics expertise: Gained insight into logistics management through case studies of ‘Farm to Fridge’.

Skills development: Improved communication, teamwork, problem solving and leadership skills.

“At APM Terminals Pipavav, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of maritime leaders who will drive India’s growth and sustainability agenda,” said Mr. Girish Aggarwal, Managing Director, APM Terminals Pipavav. The ‘Future Leaders – Foundation Program’ is a testament to our commitment to skills development and innovation. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality and collaborating with industry pioneers such as Maersk Training and Gujarat Maritime University, we aim to deliver an unparalleled learning experience. This program will equip young talent with the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of the maritime industry while promoting a sustainable future.”