The IMO’s comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code is the most significant overhaul of seafarer training standards since the 2010 Manila Amendments. In 2026 it moved firmly from identifying gaps to drafting amendments. Here is a summary for maritime administrations, training centres and shipping companies.

Where the review stands

Phase 1 (completed at HTW 11, February 2025) identified more than 400 gaps in the current Convention and Code.
MSC 110 (June 2025) endorsed the roadmaps and brought the target completion forward to 2029–2030, from the earlier 2031–2032.
HTW 12 (22–27 February 2026) began Phase 2 drafting on Chapter II (Master and deck) and Chapter III (Engine). An intersessional working group in March 2026 took up Chapters IV and VI and the remaining Chapter I provisions.

Themes shaping the new STCW

Simulator and advanced training technologies: including whether structured simulator training can replace part of sea service
Digital competences and cybersecurity, together with digital verification of certificates
New fuels: competences for alternative fuels and new technologies
Non-technical skills and the human element: mental health, psychological safety, violence and harassment, and diversity
Updated knowledge on ballast water management and search and rescue, and a review of celestial navigation and ECDIS training

Already approved in 2026

Training institutions should note several outputs already in force or approved:

Interim training guidelines for seafarers on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol and ammonia as fuel, finalised at HTW 12 and approved at MSC 111. Guidelines for hydrogen, LPG, battery and wind propulsion are planned through 2029.
Validated IMO model courses, including 1.21 Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities. It now includes competence on preventing and responding to violence and harassment as part of all new Basic Safety courses. Chemical and oil tanker cargo and ballast handling simulator courses (1.37 and 2.06) were also validated.
Continuing work to integrate STCW oversight with the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) and to strengthen the “White List” process. A correspondence group reports to HTW 13 in 2027.

What MET institutions should do now

The final text is still being drafted, but the direction is clear. Institutions that start early will be ready when amendments are adopted:

Map current programmes against the emerging competence areas, especially digital, new-fuel and human-element topics.
Review simulator capability and how simulator-based assessment is documented.
Update Basic Safety training to the revised model course 1.21.
Strengthen quality management systems (for example ISO 21001 and ISO 24438) so that new requirements can be absorbed with clear evidence of compliance.

Polaris supports maritime administrations and training institutions with curriculum development, model-course alignment, instructor development and quality-system implementation. Contact us to plan your institution’s STCW readiness.

Sources: IMO: Comprehensive review of the STCW Convention and Code – FAQ; DNV: HTW 12 summary; MSC 111 key outcomes.