The Maldives State Shipping Company (MSS) has announced paid internships for women in order to encourage more women to join the Maritime Industry. Initially introduced on Women in Maritime Day earlier in May 2023, the opportunities are open until end of this year.
MSS informed that the internships are targeted at young women interested to develop their careers in the shipping industry. Paid internships are available in Documentation, Operations, and Commercial.
According to Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA), women represent less than 2% of the world’s seafaring workforce and are predominantly employed in the cruise sector. Looking at the distribution of the ranks that women work in, 39% of women within the surveyed companies by WISTA work in mid-management, 28% in technical roles, and 48% in administrative and support roles.
In the Maldives, women have traditionally played a vital role in the industry, particularly in fishing. Women have been involved in fishing activities such as processing and assisting with fishing operations. However, women’s participation in other areas of the maritime industry, such as shipping and logistics, has been limited. In recent years, there have been efforts to increase women’s participation and leadership in the maritime industry in the Maldives.
“At MSS, we strive to provide as many opportunities for gender equality and female empowerment as possible,” read a statement by the company. MSS promotes education and training through its CSR initiative Kalaaseen Scholarship Program, aimed to increase the pool of skilled local maritime personnel. MSS also raises awareness and visibility through panel discussions and participating in various seminars and forums of the maritime sector. Furthermore, it facilitates networking and mentorship for employees, and advocates for policies that support gender diversity and inclusion, such as ensuring pay equality for both genders.
