Sustainability in maritime education and training: A quality standards approach in Kenya

The Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulations of Kenya adapt The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention) and the Standard Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW Code) for Seafarers. The STCW Convention and Code defines the quality standards at a minimum requirement as the harmonized threshold for contracting parties, which includes Kenya. Educational Institutions in Kenya primarily uses Quality Management Systems in application of quality to education and training. This is however contrary to the requirements of the STCW Convention and Code for institutions engaged in Maritime Education and Training. The paper focusses in assessing the extent of non-compliance, the circumstantial challenges and thereafter proposes a framework to address challenges in implementing Quality Standard Systems.