Apply now! Nominations open for future leaders in maritime decarbonization

Governments of least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS) are invited to nominate candidates for the 2026 Sustainable Maritime Transport Training Programme (GHG-SMART), implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and funded by the Republic of Korea.

The GHG-SMART project supports SIDS and LDCs in addressing the urgent challenges of maritime decarbonization and in implementing the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships.  The programme has successfully trained over 80 maritime professionals from nearly 50 SIDS and LDCs.

Training and leadership opportunities

The 2026 edition of the GHG-SMART programme will provide world-class training and practical experiences for maritime leaders.

Participants will benefit from:

• Needs-based training: Tailored content addressing the unique challenges faced by SIDS and LDCs in maritime decarbonization.

• Hands-on experience: One-week practical training session in the Republic of Korea, including industry visits, providing real-world insights into maritime decarbonization.

• Post-training engagement: Opportunities for continued involvement through the GHG-SMART alumni network.

• Trainee Structured Training Plans (TSTP): to ensure sustainability and country engagement beyond the training programme.

• Scholarship opportunity: Full scholarships for the best performing trainees to pursue a Master of Science in Maritime Energy Management at the World Maritime University (WMU) in Malmö, Sweden, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and travel.

The training programme will cover, among other topics:

• Drafting of National Action Plans (NAP) for maritime decarbonization in SIDS and LDCs

• Securing finance for maritime decarbonization projects in SIDS and LDCs

• Developing roadmaps for sustainable and low-carbon shipping and ports

• Identifying country-specific training needs to reduce GHG emissions in port and hinterland transport

• Promoting gender diversity within the maritime sector in SIDS and LDCs

How to nominate

IMO Member States that are recognized as SIDS and LDCs by the United Nations are invited to submit a nomination of two participants each. At least one nominee must be a woman.

Nominated participants are expected to be government officials working in the maritime or environmental sector, have a good understanding of maritime issues, including but not limited to GHG issues, and preferably intend to become engaged in maritime energy and decarbonization policy development/implementation in their country.