CHAPTER III

This chapter presents the overview of the study as explained, analyzed, and

interpreted. In return, these findings are the basis for deciding the conclusion in line with

suitable recommendations for obtainable productivity enrichment.

Summary of Findings

During onboard training, cadet officers encounter a demanding workload

meticulously designed to instill discipline, resilience, and essential leadership skills. This

carefully calibrated workload aims to simulate real-world scenarios, fostering

adaptability for multifaceted responsibilities ranging from watchkeeping to physically

demanding tasks like cargo hold cleaning. The systematic allocation of tasks, coupled

with mentorship, plays a pivotal role in developing confidence and competence.

However, challenges, such as demanding incidents during port stays, underscore the

necessity for quick adaptation and mastery of unforeseen tasks, reflecting the dynamic

nature of their seafaring experiences.

In the seafaring industry, cadet officers navigate a challenging work environment

with unique factors influencing daily conditions. They emphasize the significance of a

supportive work culture, safety consciousness, and mentorship. Positive aspects,

including camaraderie, higher salaries, and exposure to diverse cultures, coexist with

challenges like isolation, mental exhaustion, and operational risks. Varied experiences

during port operations in different countries highlight organizational efficiency

differences, portraying a balance between rewarding and demanding facets of the

seafaring profession.
 Coping mechanisms and adaptation strategies are integral for cadet officers.

These include maintaining optimism, continuous learning, positive communication, and

staying connected with support systems. Commitment to avoiding negative comments,

self-reflection, humility, and engaging in well-being initiatives such as breaks, exercise,

and socializing are crucial. The perpetual learner mindset and willingness to seek

guidance contribute to personal and professional growth, enabling cadets to navigate

the complex challenges of their initial training effectively.

Differences in experiences between cadets on cargo and passenger vessels

reveal nuanced insights. Container vessel cadets face diverse and intense workloads

requiring constant flexibility and adaptability. Positive aspects, such as collaboration and

skill development, coexist with challenges like unpredictable tasks and long shifts during

port stays. In contrast, passenger vessel cadets focus on customer service, emergency

response training, and managing diverse passenger cultures and personalities.

International cadets on cargo vessels navigate a more diverse workload and

collaborative work environments, facing challenges related to time zones and tight port

schedules. The varying experiences highlight the importance of tailored training

programs to prepare cadets for the unique demands of their chosen vessel types.

Lastly, the experiences of domestic and international cadets in the maritime

industry showcase a complex tapestry of challenges and adaptations unique to each

group. Domestic cadets on passenger vessels emphasize tasks related to customer

service, emergency response training, and ensuring passenger satisfaction, with

challenges in managing diverse passenger cultures. In contrast, international cadets on

cargo vessels face a more diverse array of tasks, including navigational responsibilities

and deck maintenance, with challenges related to time zone transitions and tight port

schedules. The contrast in challenges is not only related to the nature of tasks but also

to the pressures associated with them, shaping their adaptation, skill development, and

overall perceptions of seafaring life.

Conclusion

The seafaring industry presents a distinctive blend of challenges and rewards that

significantly shape the experiences of cadet officers during their onboard training. The

intricacies of their workload, adaptability requirements, and coping mechanisms vary

significantly based on the specific type of vessel to which they are assigned—whether it

be a cargo or passenger vessel—and their background as either domestic or

international cadets. These differences contribute to the nuanced tapestry of their

professional journey at sea, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of the maritime

profession.

Amidst the demands of the maritime environment, certain vital factors emerge as

paramount for cadet officers. A positive work culture, characterized by collaboration and

mutual support, proves essential. Robust mentorship programs and reliable support

systems play crucial roles in not only fostering the well-being of cadets but also

significantly contributing to their overall professional development. While challenges

such as isolation, mental exhaustion, and unpredictable incidents are inherent in the

seafaring profession, the narratives underscore the importance of resilience and

adaptive strategies. These strategies are deemed crucial for mitigating challenges and

ensuring a successful and fulfilling cadet experience, reinforcing the resilience required

for a career at sea.

Recommendations

Several key recommendations can be implemented to elevate the training

experience for cadet officers and enhance their preparedness for the challenges of

seafaring. Firstly, it is crucial to tailor training programs to the specific demands

associated with different vessel types, ensuring that cadets receive targeted instruction

and exposure to scenarios relevant to their future roles, which includes incorporating

modules on coping mechanisms, stress management, and interpersonal skills, providing

cadets with a comprehensive skill set crucial for their success at sea.

Secondly, strengthening mentorship programs is imperative for providing cadets

with consistent guidance and support during challenging situations. Emphasizing

positive communication and collaboration within the crew fosters a supportive

environment that contributes to the overall well-being and professional development of

cadets. Additionally, initiatives focused on mental health, fatigue management, and

strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance should be implemented to

prioritize the well-being of cadets. Encouraging open communication channels allows

cadets to express concerns and seek assistance, creating a more supportive and

resilient maritime community.

 Furthermore, cultural sensitivity training, especially for cadets on passenger

vessels, is essential to equip them with the skills to manage diverse passenger

interactions effectively. Fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity

enhances the overall experience for both cadets and passengers. Lastly, a commitment

to continuous improvement is crucial. Regularly reviewing and updating training

programs based on feedback from cadet officers ensures the ongoing relevance and

effectiveness of the training curriculum. Cultivating a culture of continuous improvement

within the seafaring industry enables it to adapt proactively to evolving challenges,

ensuring that cadet officers are well-prepared for successful and fulfilling careers in this

demanding yet rewarding profession.