Skills Gaps and Skills Mismatch in Mozambican Maritime

Abstract

Mozambique depends heavily on the maritime sector, with its major ports handling a significant share of regional trade. In this context, training qualified maritime professionals is a strategic priority. The Escola Superior de Ciências Náuticas (ESCN) is the country’s only institution certified to train seafarers under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 78, as amended). However, concerns remain regarding the alignment between the training provided and current labor market demands. This study used a convergent mixed-methods design, combining a quantitative survey of 34 graduates, a parallel questionnaire for 2 industry employers, and a qualitative panel of 7 participants. The analysis focused on six competency dimensions: technical, digital, behavioral, onboard practical training, employability, and technological trends. The findings indicate moderate adequacy in behavioral and employability-related competencies, but significant deficiencies in the digital and onboard practical training dimensions, reflecting both skills gaps and skills mismatches. Employers provided even more critical assessments, with none of the evaluated dimensions reaching the minimum adequacy threshold. Qualitative findings identified four major structural constraints: technological obsolescence, insufficient onboard practical training, the need for continuous professional development of academic staff, and weak institutional linkages between ESCN and the labor market.