A working meeting dedicated to maritime education and cadet training was held at Odesa National Maritime Academy (ONMA) with the participation of Academy management, maritime companies, and crewing agencies. Among the participants were representatives of Alpha Navigation, CMA SHIPS Ukraine Agency, MSC Ukraine, and other industry organizations.
The meeting was chaired by Acting Rector Vadym Zakharchenko. Academy representatives also confirmed that former Rector Mykhailo Miiusov is currently serving as Advisor to the Rector.
According to the Academy, ONMA remains the only higher education institution in Ukraine fully equipped for the complete training of maritime officers. Discussions also touched on the Ministry of Education’s ongoing consideration of a possible merger between ONMA and Odesa National Maritime University as part of plans to establish a unified maritime university.
Participants discussed cadet sea practice, cooperation with shipping companies, and current challenges facing maritime education. The Academy currently operates with a staff of 161 academic positions, with further staff reductions likely still under consideration.
The Academy also noted that, for the second consecutive year, the Unified State Qualification Exam can be taken not only in Odesa, but also in Chisinau and Varna. According to Academy representatives, a significant number of cadets are now choosing to take the exam abroad.
Another topic raised during the meeting was the introduction of a new state-mandated discipline, “Basics of National Resistance.” The 150-hour course is taught from the first year of studies and includes both theoretical and practical training, including weapon assembly, shooting practice, and drone operation. The discipline is mandatory for both male and female cadets.
According to the Academy, 233 navigation officers, 118 marine engineers, and 46 electro-technical officers are expected to graduate in 2026.
Against the backdrop of ongoing reforms and challenges in the maritime education sector, the meeting highlighted the industry’s continued focus on preparing the next generation of Ukrainian seafarers for careers in the global fleet.
