Piraeus, 24 August, 2026: DNV Maritime Academy Hellas and the World Maritime University (WMU)
are launching, for the first time in Greece, a five-day Masterclass on Human Element. The course is
designed to help maritime professionals better understand the role people play in shaping a safer,
more resilient and future-ready shipping industry.
The creation of the Masterclass follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between DNV
Hellas and the World Maritime University during Posidonia 2026. The agreement provides a basis for closer
cooperation between the two parties withing the areas of maritime education, training and research.
Titled “At the Crossroads of Change: The Human Element at the Core of the Shipping Sector”, the course
will take place from 30 November to 4 December 2026 at the DNV Maritime Academy Hellas in Piraeus,
Greece. It will be delivered in cooperation with the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), School
of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, and with the contribution of HELMEPA.
The programme combines high-level teaching with immersive hands-on training, covering key topics such
as regulatory frameworks, safety, security, energy efficiency and sustainability, artificial intelligence,
wellness, resilience and soft skills. Participants will also explore leadership, teamwork, intercultural
communication and conflict resolution as essential skills for a future-proof maritime workforce.
“As the maritime sector continues to adapt to a multilayered transformation, the human element remains
central to effective implementation and long-term industry progress,” said Dr. Marina Papaioannou,
Regional Maritime Academy Manager, DNV Maritime. “This Masterclass aims to support policymakers,
shipping leaders, managers and seafarers by providing a comprehensive understanding of how human
performance and leadership influence compliance and operational effectiveness in a changing world.”
