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Digital training, information exchange to enhance ports worldwide
Digital training, simulators and e-learning content will be used for professional development and to overcome emerging challenges in ports under an agreement at the United Nations
The International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), through its TrainForTrade Programme, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to formalise their collaboration in capacity building and knowledge sharing for port communities worldwide.
They plan to co-operate on training packages and content development, particularly using simulators and digital facilities, and exchange expertise and best practices in port management and operations. Working together, they will develop initiatives to support capacity building and professional development in the maritime and port sectors to enhance harbour and terminal management.
This partnership will further support the UN port management programme’s international networks in French, English and Spanish, serving port communities across the world.
IHMA president Paul O’Regan and UNCTAD chief of the human resources development under the TrainForTrade section, Mark Assaf, presented this MoU on two significant occasions in May.
The first took place on 22 May 2025 in Belfast Harbour, Northern Ireland, UK during an IHMA seminar, and the second on 26 May 2025 in Dublin, Ireland, as part of a TrainForTrade event hosted by Dublin Port alongside its partners Port of Cork, Belfast Harbour and Shannon Foynes Port.
“Formalising this partnership with the IHMA and its global network of harbour masters is invaluable and a great achievement,” said Mr Assaf. “This collaboration comes at a critical time as ports increasingly request support to reinforce their essential role in global supply chain resilience and sustainable trade.”
The collaboration will begin with upcoming capacity building missions and workshops, and will update TrainForTrade’s digital training tools and port management courses.
“Our shared commitment to professional development and knowledge exchange will help foster safer, more efficient and sustainable ports worldwide,” said Mr O’Regan.
UNCTAD TrainForTrade, operating in over 40 countries, aims to enhance efficient port management in developing nations and create networks to connect public, private and international entities to boost trade and economic growth.
IHMA represents a membership of over 200 harbour masters and port professionals from more than 50 countries. It shares best practices, technical knowledge and professional development opportunities, fostering international collaboration among maritime authorities and stakeholders.
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