We were privileged to host an exclusive Career Guidance Program (Open Day) on the Merchant Navy and IMEC Sponsorship Program, in strategic collaboration with the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC) and its distinguished member companies – Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), Synergy Maritime, and Zodiac Maritime.
The program was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Rob Gale, Head of Training, IMEC; Mr. Gary Mills, Training Officer, IMEC; Capt. Sankalp Shukla, Chairman, FOSMA and Managing Director, BSM; Capt. Kirupakaran, Training-in-Charge, Synergy Maritime; and Mr. Anoop Joseph Chacko, Training & Development Manager, Zodiac Maritime. Their insights and vast experience brought real-world operational and career perspectives directly to aspiring cadets.
The guests were warmly welcomed by the leadership of HIMT College, led by Dr. Sanjeev S. Vakil, CEO; Capt. Anand Subramanian, Principal; and Mr. Kirtan S. Vakil, Director – Business Development, along with dedicated faculty, staff, and enthusiastic cadets, reflecting HIMT’s strong academic culture and collaborative spirit.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 250 students from various schools and colleges, serving as a powerful platform to create clarity, confidence, and direction for young aspirants exploring careers in the Merchant Navy.
A key highlight was the comprehensive presentation by Mr. Rob Gale, who clearly outlined the IMEC Indian Cadet Programme, including eligibility criteria, structured application pathways, and sponsorship opportunities.
Further, Capt. Kirupakaran shared Synergy Maritime’s growth vision and cadet sponsorship opportunities across its rapidly expanding fleet of 700+ vessels.
Additionally, Mr. Anoop Joseph Chacko highlighted the prevailing lack of awareness about Merchant Navy careers despite their vast potential, and spoke about Zodiac Maritime’s diversified fleet of approximately 180 vessels, including its involvement in time-chartered operations such as the dedicated transportation of BYD automobiles.
The Q&A session was highly engaging, with students raising thoughtful and insightful questions. Capt. Sankalp Shukla, Mr. Rob Gale, and Mr. Gary Mills addressed most of the queries with clarity and reassurance, reflecting their depth of experience and commitment to transparent guidance.
A particularly noteworthy question from a school student related to oil and gas leakage risks during tanker operations. Appreciating the maturity of the question, Capt. Sankalp Shukla explained the rigorous training seafarers undergo for emergency response, strict compliance with international conventions, company procedures, and the importance of regular emergency drills. He also highlighted the role of coastal authorities and specialized agencies in managing large-scale incidents, reinforcing the industry’s strong safety and environmental culture.
The dignitaries were later taken on a campus tour, where they appreciated HIMT College’s advanced training infrastructure, modern simulators, and technology-enabled learning environment.
This initiative once again reaffirmed HIMT College’s commitment to delivering world-class, industry-relevant maritime education, preparing cadets to meet global standards with competence, confidence, and professionalism.
HIMT College extends its sincere gratitude to IMEC, its esteemed member companies, FOSMA, and Maritime Association of Shipowners, Shipmanagers and Agents (MASSA) for their continued trust, guidance, and collaboration in shaping the next generation of maritime professionals.
