Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW 11) - Closing remarks

ADDRESS OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL AT THE CLOSING OF THE 11TH SESSION OF THE SUB-COMMITTEE ON HUMAN ELEMENT, TRAINING AND WATCHKEEPING (HTW 11), 10 to 14 February 2025

Delivered by IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez on 14 February 2025.

Distinguished delegates,

We have come to the end of another very demanding and productive session of the Sub-Committee. 

Let me highlight some of the most important results of your work this week.

The Sub-Committee has completed phase 1 (review/identification of gaps) of the comprehensive review, in particular, it has finalized the list of gaps identified in the STCW Convention and Code. 

In addition, arrangements for the conduct of phase 2 (revision) of the comprehensive review have been agreed.

Concerning the development of training provisions for seafarers using alternative fuels and new technologies, the Sub-Committee has finalized draft Generic Interim Guidelines, and has progressed the development of draft fuel/technology-specific interim guidelines, in particular on training for seafarers on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel.

Concerning the continuous work on model courses, five model courses have been validated at this session. 

Special thanks go to your Chair, Mr. Haakon Storhaug of Norway, who, despite the most challenging issues he faced during this session, once again led the Sub-Committee successfully, demonstrating excellent diplomacy and leadership skills to steer the affairs of the Sub-Committee. 

I would also like to express my sincere thanks to the Chairs of the Working and Drafting Groups convened during this session for all of your commitment and cooperation to progress the Sub-Committee's work, in particular:

• Capt.  Cathleen Mauro of United States;
• Mr. Darrick Leow of Singapore;
• Mr. Jan Willem Verhoeff of Kingdom of the Netherlands; and 
• Mr. Vusi September of South Africa.

It is customary at this stage of the meeting to pay tribute to the delegates and observers who have left or are about to leave, for a variety of reasons. In saying our farewells, we thank them sincerely for their valuable contribution to the work of the Sub-Committee and IMO and wish them well.

I would like to especially reflect on the remarkable career of Mrs. Mayte Medina of the United States, the esteemed former Chair of this Sub Committee, who will retire by this year. "Doña Mayte", as we call her here in the Organization, has demonstrated her unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and profound commitment to advancing training of seafarers and human element initiatives globally. All of this will be remembered as her tremendous legacy. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your years of service and wish you a fulfilling and joyous retirement.

As always, I am grateful for the efforts of the staff of the Maritime Safety Division for their exceptional work in preparing for this meeting and supporting your Sub-Committee during this week, as well as that of all other staff of the Secretariat. All of them work tirelessly to provide the required professional support to meet your expectations. I also take this opportunity to express my thanks to the interpreters, who once again have facilitated our seamless communication during our meeting.

I wish you all an enjoyable and restful weekend and safe journey home.

Thank you.

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