Interreg

The challenges for the maritime industries on both sides of the border are now complex: the negative effects of the economic and financial crisis on shipping have long been felt. Global competition in the various maritime sectors continues to increase. Stricter environmental regulations require new technologies and high investments. In addition, the maritime industry is having to struggle massively with the recruitment of junior staff. The MariX project is intended to provide career orientation and recruitment of young professionals in the shipping and shipbuilding industry with the objective of generating a long-term interest in maritime technologies and maritime careers in order to promote the future viability of training occupations in this sector. In addition, cross-border networking should help to create the largest possible pool of potential young professionals and open apprenticeship training positions, so that the increased opportunities can lead to an optimal match between employees and employers.

Essential for generating interest are the so-called “catch factors”, which stimulate curiosity, and “hold factors”, which lead to a long-term deeper motivation and thus supports the choice of career. In order to achieve these objectives, a teaching concept for the age groups 12-14 years will be developed and evaluated.

This approach includes:
1. The development, application and evaluation of innovative practical and theoretical teaching material with a high practical relevance
2. Development, implementation and establishment of a “Maritime Training Day” at “authentic locations” (e.g. shipyard, port, etc.) to which schools on both sides of the border are invited on a regular basis (e.g. once a year).
3. Organization of two two-day school excursions, where pupils from both countries come together, get to know companies and work together on maritime topics (including building boats).