Research on the Maritime Labor Market in Georgia: The Current State of Higher Maritime Education in Georgia – Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine the current state of maritime education in Georgia. The article addresses two key questions: What opportunities do Georgia's maritime higher education institutions have? What challenges do they face in providing education that meets the demands of the global maritime labor market? To explore the research topic in detail and depth, the study employs qualitative research methods, including desk research and in-depth (expert) interviews, with a total of 41 interviews conducted. The article is based on Theodore Schultz’s Human Capital Theory of Economic Growth, which states that investments in human capital—such as education, training/retraining, and healthcare—are crucial drivers of economic growth and development. Analyzing the research findings through the lens of human capital theory, it can be concluded that recent measures implemented in Georgia’s maritime sector—such as the harmonization of national legislation with international regulations, state investment in maritime education, and diversification of maritime professions—have contributed to: Expanded opportunities for obtaining maritime education Increased interest in maritime professions Improved access for Georgian seafarers to the global maritime employment market Enhanced qualifications of seafarers, making them more competitive Growth in the number of seafarers, leading to greater financial contributions to Georgia’s economy The economic benefit generated by seafarers contributes approximately $300 million annually to Georgia’s economy. However, despite these positive changes, challenges remain. Several barriers hinder the delivery of high-quality higher maritime education, including: Difficulties in accessing maritime practical training Limited availability of maritime education, primarily concentrated in the Adjara region A lack of scientific research projects in maritime-related fields In terms of access to education, the situation is even more challenging in Georgia’s coastal regions, such as Samegrelo and Guria, despite the establishment of the Poti Maritime Vocational School in 2021.