Contemporary Approach to the Training of Deck Officers for the Use of Loading and Stability Instruments

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has established minimum standards of competence for seafarers to ensure safe shipping and reduce the negative impact of maritime transport activities. However, the current IMO standards for the education and training of deck officers do not adequately address the increased demand for familiarization with onboard loading computer systems (LCS). This study analyzes the effectiveness of the "Cargo stowage and handling" syllabus for bachelor degree nautical students at the Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy (NVNA) in Bulgaria. The syllabus was updated in 2020 to include familiarization with the IMO and International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) regulations concerning LCS and practical classes using loading software for different vessel types. An analysis of the effect of the applied contemporary syllabus on the quality of trainees' education in "Cargo stowage and handling" showed a significant improvement in students' final evaluation results. The study concludes that continuous improvement in maritime education and training is necessary, particularly in areas where technological advancements have outpaced the existing regulatory frameworks. The success of the NVNA's updated syllabus suggests that similar approaches could be beneficial if implemented more widely in maritime education institutions globally.