Digital Transformation and Maritime Workforce Sustainability: Governance Frameworks for Equitable Transition Amid Autonomous Vessel Technology and Digitalized Port Operations

Abstract

This research examines how autonomous vessel technology, digital port systems, and digitalized maritime operations affect employment opportunities and skill requirements for Indonesian maritime professionals while analyzing governance frameworks necessary for equitable workforce transition. Through focus group discussions with two veteran shipping officers, four senior maritime lecturers, four former seafarers, and analysis of emerging technology adoption patterns, this study investigates how maritime education institutions should adapt curricula to balance emerging digital competencies (data literacy, cybersecurity, automation management) with traditional maritime skills remaining essential in contemporary operations. The research identifies three critical questions: how does autonomous technology and digitalization reshape employment opportunities and skill demands across deck, engine, and port management specializations? What governance frameworks ensure equitable transition for seafarers and port workers facing technological displacement? How should maritime education evolve to prepare cadets for digitalized maritime industries while maintaining commitment to employment accessibility for diverse population groups? Findings reveal that technological adoption creates both employment disruption (reduced positions for junior officers) and opportunity (new roles requiring digital competency) with uneven distribution across maritime specializations. Governance frameworks ensuring equitable transition must coordinate education providers, shipping companies, port authorities, and regulatory bodies toward workforce support objectives. Research results provide curriculum modernization frameworks balancing digital literacy with traditional maritime competency, policy recommendations for equitable technology transition, and evidence supporting maritime education as strategic lever for inclusive maritime workforce development.

Keywords :  maritime digitalization; autonomous vessels; workforce transformation; skill development; maritime employment; digital literacy; governance frameworks