Interest in shipping education is surging in Cyprus, highlighting the island’s deep-rooted maritime heritage and the strength of its shipping sector.
- Interest in shipping education is surging in Cyprus, highlighting the island's deep-rooted maritime heritage and the strength of its shipping sector.
At the Cyprus University of Technology (Tepak), the Department of Shipping has quickly gained popularity, showcasing both the exciting prospects in the sector and Limassol’s role as a key maritime hub.
Professor Photis Panayides, the department’s coordinator, shared with Lemesos TV that the response to the new bachelor’s degree in shipping studies, launched in 2023, has exceeded all expectations. It currently ranks among the top twenty most sought-after degrees in public universities, largely due to the concentration of shipping companies in Limassol that offer numerous career opportunities for young graduates.
Cyprus’ identity as an island nation plays a significant role in this trend. Surrounded by the sea, locals have always felt a connection to maritime life, which is now being transformed into educational and employment avenues.
The Tepak programme, however, diverges from traditional seafaring training, focusing instead on the business and management facets of shipping. Panayides stated, “It’s not about becoming a sailor. Graduates can work in any sector of the maritime industry, and often beyond it.” This approach equips students with knowledge in economics, administration, and logistics, preparing them for roles in various companies, ports, and broader trade networks.
Career prospects are a significant factor driving this growing interest. University data reveals that most graduates secure employment within a year of completing their studies, particularly within the maritime sector. Panayides noted that working conditions in shipping are often superior to those found in other industries, offering room for advancement and long-term career growth.
Despite Tepak offering maritime-related courses since 2008, the establishment of the dedicated department two years ago marked a pivotal moment for maritime education in Cyprus. The department now provides accredited undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, allowing students to pursue a complete academic journey in shipping without the need to study abroad.
Reflecting on his own educational path, Panayides shared that he studied in England before embarking on an academic career that took him to Hong Kong. He maintains close ties with shipping companies, emphasising the importance of collaboration between academia and industry.
In an effort to engage younger students with the maritime field, the department has launched a National Shipping Student Competition. Set for November 8 and 15, the competition invites second and third-year lyceum students to participate in lectures and assessments designed to introduce them to maritime studies. “The goal is to bring pupils to the university, let them see the facilities, meet the professors, and discover what the maritime field really involves,” Panayides explained.
There’s a noticeable shift in interest towards maritime education among younger students, with many expressing a desire to study maritime subjects as early as their first years of secondary school. This is closely tied to outreach efforts from the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) and the numerous companies operating in the area.
However, awareness of maritime careers still lags behind more traditional professions like medicine or engineering. Tepak is actively working to change this, visiting schools to speak directly to students and showcase the opportunities available in the maritime industry.
Family influence also plays a crucial role, with many students hailing from households connected to the sea. Panayides noted that there are numerous cases where a parent in the shipping sector inspires their child to follow a similar path.
The department now boasts six specialised professors, each bringing expertise in various areas of maritime economics and management. Panayides encourages students and parents to reach out for guidance, saying, “We’re always available. Anyone interested can visit, call or email us; we’re happy to provide details about the courses and the professional opportunities available.”
Entry into the programme remains competitive, with this year’s admission scores ranging between 15 and 19. Panayides reassured prospective students, saying, “It’s not impossible. It simply requires effort, and that’s how it should be. We maintain high standards because we want our graduates to make us proud when they go out to work.” Many of Tepak’s alumni now hold significant positions within leading shipping companies, with nearly all finding employment shortly after graduation.
At the recent Maritime Cyprus conference, Panayides encountered former students from both England and Tepak, spanning various years. He expressed satisfaction in witnessing their successes in the shipping industry. He highlighted that shipping offers not only financial rewards but also a work environment where employees feel valued. “It’s a pleasant and professional atmosphere where employers genuinely look after their staff,” he concluded.
