{"id":6375,"date":"2026-06-25T14:42:29","date_gmt":"2026-06-25T12:42:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malibrodari.hr\/dean-peronja-the-maritime-sector-of-the-future-requires-new-competencies-but-humans-remain-key\/"},"modified":"2026-07-06T14:12:01","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T12:12:01","slug":"dean-peronja-the-maritime-sector-of-the-future-requires-new-competencies-but-humans-remain-key","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malibrodari.hr\/en\/dean-peronja-the-maritime-sector-of-the-future-requires-new-competencies-but-humans-remain-key\/","title":{"rendered":"Dean Peronja: The maritime sector of the future requires new competencies, but humans remain key"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Croatia has been building its identity as a maritime country for centuries, and the reputation of domestic seafarers is still recognized on the global labor market today. However, modern shipping is undergoing profound changes. Digitalization, automation, green transition and the development of autonomous systems are changing the way ships work. But so are the demands that the industry places on future seafarers. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n
We spoke with Dean Prof. Dr. sc. Ivan Peronja about how the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split is adapting to these challenges, how important it is to preserve the rich maritime tradition while simultaneously introducing new technologies, and what the future of Croatian maritime affairs holds. In the conversation, he reflected on the results of his mandate, the position of Croatian seafarers in the international environment, the importance of cooperation with the economy, and a message for young people who are considering a career at sea or in the maritime sector. <\/p>\n\n
How would you describe the period of your mandate as dean of the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split and what changes or projects would you highlight in particular?<\/h2>\n\n
The period of my mandate was marked by the strengthening of the Faculty on several levels. From the modernization of infrastructure and teaching processes to a stronger international positioning of the Faculty. I would especially highlight investments in teaching and scientific equipment, the development of new projects and research activities. But also the intensification of international cooperation through European and global networks of maritime academies. <\/p>\n\n
During this period, the Faculty successfully passed the re-accreditation procedure of the Agency for Science and Higher Education. This confirmed the quality of our educational and scientific work. The procedure for renewing the approval of the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure for the implementation of training programs in accordance with STCW standards was also successfully completed. This is of exceptional importance for the international recognition of our study programs and the competencies that our students acquire. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n
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I would especially like to highlight the opening of new project and research activities and the strengthening of cooperation between the Faculty and the economy and maritime industry. Our goal is to ensure the highest quality, most modern and market-oriented education for our students. <\/p>\n\n
Of course, such development is not the result of the work of just one administration, but of the continuity of the work and development of the Faculty over a longer period. Each previous administration has made an important contribution to building the quality, reputation and stability of the institution. Our goal was to continue this development direction and further improve the Faculty in line with the contemporary challenges and needs of the maritime sector. <\/p>\n\n
The Maritime Faculty in Split has a long tradition. How important is it to preserve this historical and identity component in a time of rapid technological change? <\/h2>\n\n
The Faculty of Maritime Studies in Split has a long and important tradition of over 60 years, which represents one of the foundations of our identity. In times of rapid technological change, it is especially important to preserve the values \u200b\u200bthat have built the reputation of Croatian seafarers and maritime education for generations – responsibility, expertise and connection to the sea. <\/p>\n\n
At the same time, we must not view tradition as something static. The ability to adapt and openness to new knowledge have always been the hallmark of maritime affairs. That is why we strive to combine rich experience and maritime heritage with modern technologies, digitalization and contemporary approaches to education. <\/p>\n\n
I believe that it is precisely this combination of tradition and innovation that is the greatest value of our Faculty and an important prerequisite for its further development.<\/p>\n\n
When we talk about Croatian maritime tradition, what has made us recognizable as a maritime nation throughout history?<\/h2>\n\n
Throughout history, Croatia has been a maritime nation, thanks to the strong connection between people and the sea, as well as the knowledge, experience and adaptability of our sailors. Since ancient times, the eastern coast of the Adriatic has been an area of \u200b\u200bdeveloped maritime, trade and shipbuilding. Numerous Dalmatian towns and islands developed a maritime tradition through trade, shipping and the education of sailors. Life by the sea has shaped the identity of local communities, and maritime professions have been passed down through generations. <\/p>\n\n
Croatian seafarers have historically been recognized for their expertise, responsibility, and ability to work in an international environment, and this reputation has been maintained to this day. An important role in this has been played by quality maritime education, which has produced competent officers, engineers, and experts in various fields of maritime affairs for generations. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n
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To what extent are today’s study programs aligned with the needs of the modern shipping industry and the global labor market?<\/h2>\n\n
Today’s study programs must be aligned with the needs of the modern shipping industry. Namely, after completing their studies, our students enter the international labor market and work in a highly competitive and global environment. That is why maritime education is based on clearly defined international standards. The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) plays a key role in this. Also, the Regulations on Seafarer Qualifications and Certificates of Competence, which prescribe the competencies and standards that seafarers must meet. <\/p>\n\n
The faculty continuously adapts its teaching content to technological changes and industry demands, especially in the areas of digitalization, automation, safety and environmental protection. <\/p>\n\n
In addition to regular study programs, lifelong learning programs also play a very important role. Through them, seafarers are continuously educated and trained throughout their careers, which is necessary today in a sector that is rapidly developing and changing. <\/p>\n\n
How does the Faculty cooperate with shipping companies\/associations and the real sector, and how important is this connection for the quality of education? And what does the recent award of grants for the purchase of STCW equipment for the Faculty mean in this regard? <\/h2>\n\n
The Faculty’s cooperation with shipping companies, maritime associations and the real sector is extremely important because it enables education to be connected to the real needs of the maritime industry. This cooperation is achieved through student internships, guest lectures by industry experts, joint projects, participation of the economy in the development of study programs, but also through student scholarship programs by shipping companies. <\/p>\n\n
Such a connection enables students to better prepare for the labor market, facilitate professional development, and gain a better insight into the challenges of modern maritime affairs. At the same time, through cooperation with the industry, the Faculty receives important information about new trends, technologies, and competencies that are expected of seafarers today. <\/p>\n\n
Such a connection enables students to better prepare for the labor market, facilitate professional development, and gain a better insight into the challenges of modern maritime affairs. At the same time, through cooperation with the industry, the Faculty receives important information about new trends, technologies, and competencies that are expected of seafarers today. <\/p>\n\n
Croatian seafarers traditionally have a very good reputation worldwide. What, in your opinion, sets them apart from their competitors from other maritime countries? <\/h2>\n\n
Croatian seafarers traditionally enjoy a very good reputation in the world. I think that they are primarily distinguished by their expertise, responsibility and ability to adapt to different working and living conditions. Our seafarers are known as quality and reliable professionals who can meet the high demands of modern shipping. <\/p>\n\n
A major role is played by quality maritime education and a long-standing maritime tradition that has been passed down through generations through experience working at sea. Croatian seafarers often stand out for their good knowledge of foreign languages, discipline, and ability to work in an international and multicultural environment, which is extremely important in today’s global shipping industry. <\/p>\n\n
This reputation did not come about by chance, but is the result of continuous work, education and a professional attitude towards work that Croatian seafarers have been confirming on the global labor market for decades.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n
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Which countries are we most compared to today when it comes to the education and competitiveness of seafarers in the international market?<\/h2>\n\n
When we talk about the education and competitiveness of seafarers, we are most often compared to other traditionally strong maritime countries such as Greece and the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, but also to large maritime markets such as the Philippines and India, which today have a significant number of seafarers in the global labor market.<\/p>\n\n
However, it is important to emphasize that Croatia, despite its size, still has a very good international reputation when it comes to the quality of maritime education and the expertise of seafarers.<\/p>\n\n
Competition today is extremely global, and therefore it is necessary to continuously invest in the modernization of education, simulators, research, and new technologies in order to maintain a high level of competitiveness in the international labor market.<\/p>\n\n
How much are digitalization, automation and the development of autonomous systems changing the profile of the seafarer of the future? <\/h2>\n\n
Digitalization, automation, and the development of autonomous systems are significantly changing the profile of the seafarer of the future. Today’s seafarer no longer needs to have only classic maritime knowledge. But also an understanding of digital systems, automated processes, data management, and cybersecurity. <\/p>\n\n
The increasing use of smart ship systems, remote monitoring and automation is changing the way we work on board. But it does not diminish the importance of humans. On the contrary \u2013 the responsibility of a seafarer is becoming even more complex as it requires the ability to make decisions in a technologically demanding environment. <\/p>\n\n
The development of autonomous systems does not mean the complete removal of man from maritime affairs, but a change in his role. Future seafarers will have to be interdisciplinary educated, ready for continuous improvement and adaptation to new technologies. That is why Faculties today play an important role in connecting traditional maritime competences with digital and technological knowledge, which will be crucial for the maritime industry of the future. <\/p>\n\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n
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To what extent are sustainability and “green shipping” represented in the faculty’s teaching and research?<\/h2>\n\n
Today, sustainability and green shipping are among the key topics in the development of the maritime sector, which is why they are increasingly represented both in teaching and in the research work of the Faculty. Through study programs, students become familiar with international regulations, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency of ships, alternative fuels and protection of the marine environment. <\/p>\n\n
The Faculty also actively participates in scientific and professional projects related to the decarbonization of maritime transport, green maritime corridors, digitalization and sustainable management of marine resources. Special emphasis is placed on connecting technical, operational and environmental aspects of maritime transport, as sustainability will be one of the key challenges for the future development of the shipping industry. <\/p>\n\n
It is important that students develop an awareness of the importance of sustainable development during their education and understand the changes that the green transition brings to maritime affairs on a global scale.<\/p>\n\n
Do you think that Croatia is sufficiently utilizing its maritime potential, not only through the education of seafarers, but also through the development of the maritime industry and science?<\/h2>\n\n
I believe that Croatia has an exceptional maritime potential that can be developed and used even more strongly. In addition to quality education for seafarers and a long maritime tradition, Croatia has a very favorable geographical location, developed ports, shipbuilding experience and skilled people who can contribute to the development of the modern maritime sector. <\/p>\n\n
However, there is certainly room for progress. Especially in the area of \u200b\u200bmaritime industry development, research, new technologies and stronger connections between science and economy. Today, maritime transport is no longer just about transporting people and goods. It includes digitalization, energy transition, autonomous systems, environmental protection and the development of innovative technologies. <\/p>\n\n
That is why it is important to continuously invest in knowledge, research, infrastructure and international cooperation so that Croatia can better utilize its maritime potential and position itself as a modern and competitive maritime country.<\/p>\n
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Do you see greater interest among young people in maritime professions today, or is the sector facing a shortage of personnel?<\/h2>\n\n
The maritime sector continues to show relatively stable interest among young people, especially due to international career opportunities, competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment. However, like many other industries, the maritime industry today faces challenges related to a long-term shortage of qualified personnel. <\/p>\n\n
The expectations of the younger generation have also changed, with more attention now being paid to work-life balance, working conditions and long-term professional development opportunities. This is precisely why maritime education must keep pace with changes in the industry, as well as the way we present the maritime profession to young people. <\/p>\n\n
It is important to show that modern maritime is not just classic work on a ship. It is a sector that includes new technologies, digitalization, management, logistics, sustainability and numerous career development opportunities, both at sea and on land. <\/p>\n\n
What message would you send to young people considering a career in maritime today?<\/h2>\n\n
I would like to tell young people that maritime is still a profession that offers great opportunities for personal and professional development. It is a dynamic and internationally oriented sector that allows for the acquisition of valuable experience, work in a multicultural environment, and the development of numerous professional competencies. <\/p>\n\n
At the same time, maritime today is rapidly changing under the influence of digitalization, automation and green transition, which opens up new opportunities for young people who are willing to learn, adapt and develop together with technology.<\/p>\n\n
A maritime career requires responsibility, discipline and continuous improvement. But these are precisely the qualities that create experts who are respected around the world in the long term. I believe that maritime will remain one of the important and promising areas of development for Croatia in the future. <\/p>\n\n<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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