The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is seeking highly motivated maritime professionals to participate in a year-long training programme aimed at developing a network of leaders in maritime decarbonization. 

Governments from least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS) are invited to nominate candidates for the Sustainable Maritime Transport Training Programme (GHG-SMART).   

The GHG-SMART project is a forward-thinking initiative funded by the Republic of Korea and implemented by IMO. Its primary goal is to build the capacity of SIDS and LDCs to tackle the urgent challenges of maritime decarbonization and implement the 2023 IMO Strategy to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Shipping (IMO GHG Strategy). 

The programme has successfully trained nearly 60 maritime professionals from 38 SIDS and LDCs. 

What to expect from the 2025 edition 

The 2025 edition of the GHG-SMART programme will continue its tradition of providing world-class training and practical experiences for maritime leaders. The programme features: 

  • Needs-based training: Tailored content addressing the unique challenges faced by SIDS and LDCs in maritime decarbonization. 
  • Hands-on experience: A one-week practical training session in the Republic of Korea, including industry visits, providing real-world insights into maritime decarbonization. 
  • Post-training engagement: Opportunities for continued involvement through the GHG-SMART alumni network. 
  • Training Structured Training Plans (TSTP) to ensure sustainability and country engagement beyond the training programme 
  • Scholarship opportunity: Full scholarships for the best performing trainees to pursue a Master of Science in Maritime Energy Management at the World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and travel. 

In 2025, the training programme will cover: 

  • Crafting a National Action Plan (NAP) for maritime decarbonization in SIDS and LDCs 
  • Securing financing for maritime decarbonization projects in SIDS and LDCs 
  • Developing national roadmaps for transitioning to sustainable marine fuels, green ship technologies, and eco-friendly port development aligned with IMO’s GHG Strategy 
  • Identifying training needs to reduce GHG emissions in port and hinterland transport 
  • Promoting gender diversity within the maritime sector in SIDS and LDCs 

How to nominate  

IMO Member States that are recognized as SIDS and LDCs by the United Nations are invited to submit a nomination of two (2) participants each. At least one nominee must be a woman.  

Nominated participants are expected to be government officials working in the maritime or environmental sector, have a good understanding of maritime issues, including but not limited to GHG issues, and preferably intend to become engaged in maritime energy and decarbonization policy development/implementation in their country.   

Nominations should be submitted by Member States using the nomination form provided in Annex 2 of the Call for Nominations.  

The nomination form must be completed and signed by each nominee and their nominating authority. 

Send the completed nomination form via email to ghg-smart@imo.org with copy to gmaxia@imo.org.  

Deadline 

The final date for submission of the nominations is Friday, 14 February 2025.    

Don’t miss the opportunity to shape the future of green shipping—apply now!