BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC) under the Faculty of Science and Technology at Solomon Islands National University (SINU) will host this year’s International Day of the Seafarer celebrations at the Ranadi Campus on June 25.
The event will bring together maritime students, industry stakeholders, government agencies, and members of the public to honour the men and women who work at sea, said SINU in a statement yesterday.
The annual event is expected to attract students, maritime professionals, industry partners, security agencies, and invited schools in a day dedicated to recognising the critical role seafarers play in supporting global trade and ensuring maritime safety.
This year’s global theme, “Carrying the World Trade, Carrying the Risk,” highlights the invaluable contribution of seafarers to international commerce while drawing attention to the challenges and dangers they face during their service at sea.
The celebration will begin with a formal parade and flag-raising ceremony involving SIMC students, staff, active seafarers, security personnel, and visiting school groups.
“The event serves as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism of seafarers who continue to keep global trade moving despite the many risks associated with life at sea,” the statement said.
The official programme will feature welcome addresses, keynote presentations, cultural performances, and student-led activities that aim to promote maritime education and awareness.
Among the highlights will be a special presentation titled “Girls at Sea,” which will showcase the increasing participation of women in maritime careers and encourage more young women to consider opportunities within the maritime sector.
SINU said the presentation reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity and equal opportunities in the industry.
A significant part of the celebration will be a remembrance ceremony honouring seafarers who have lost their lives while serving at sea.
The ceremony will include prayers, a moment of silence, and a wreath-laying tribute at the waterfront jetty.
“This is an important opportunity for the maritime community to remember and pay respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in one of the world’s most demanding professions,” SINU stated.
Another major attraction of the event will be the 2026 Seafarers Big Show, a live maritime safety and rescue demonstration designed to showcase emergency response procedures and practical maritime skills.
The exercise will simulate a distress situation at sea and demonstrate coordinated rescue operations involving maritime authorities and SIMC trainees.
SINU said the demonstration aims to increase public understanding of maritime safety operations while highlighting the importance of training and preparedness in responding to emergencies at sea.
Following the formal programme, guests will be invited to guided tours of SIMC’s training facilities, where they will have the opportunity to observe both academic and practical maritime training programmes.
Exhibitions will feature nautical studies, marine engineering, survival training equipment, and internationally recognised maritime short courses, with students and instructors conducting live demonstrations throughout the day.
Various maritime organisations and industry partners will also host information booths and displays, providing opportunities for students, professionals, and members of the public to engage with the maritime sector and learn about career pathways available in the industry.
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