V., the global ship manager and marine services provider, has launched its V.Ships Learning Academy (VSLA) in Chennai, in partnership with maritime institute, AMET. The new facility is dedicated to training cadet recruits with the aim of preparing them for a career with V. The partnership and new facility are a strategic investment in upskilling Indian talent and supporting seafarer recruitment to meet the needs of the global fleet.
The VSLA will initially welcome 120 new entrants with bachelor’s degrees and provide them with a maritime education that is IMO and STCW compliant, offer practical experience onboard a dedicated training vessel as well as exposure to bridge and engine room simulators. The programmes offered at the academy will also feature V. specific training to ensure cadets are familiar with V.’s culture and operating standards. This will support long-term progression to officer level within the business.
The opening of the VSLA builds on V.’s long-standing presence in India, dating back to 1991. It aligns with V.’s broader aims to strengthen crewing and seafarer recruitment in the country, particularly following the opening of V.’s first office in Chennai in 2004 and new office in 2024.
Looking ahead, V. will explore opportunities to expand the academy’s scope to include additional training programmes, including catering and hospitality, further diversifying career development pathways across its workforce.
Allan Falkenberg, Chief Operating Officer, Marine HR, V., said, “The launch of our Learning Academy in Chennai is a landmark moment for V. After 30 years of operating in the country, establishing our own training institute is a natural next step in strengthening our long-term talent pipeline.
“India continues to play a vital role in our global crewing operations and there are approximately 7,000 Indian seafarers onboard V. managed vessels. By investing in structured training and development, we are ensuring that we can support the next generation of maritime professionals while maintaining the high standards our clients know and expect.”
Dr. J Ramachandran, Founder and Chancellor at AMET commented: “We are proud to partner with V. on this initiative. The partnership offers our students world-class exposure to working with a global leader in ship management. Our focus remains on delivering high-quality, industry-relevant, practical education to support cadets in building a long-term career in maritime. We are looking forward to strengthening this partnership in the years to come.”
The V.Ships Learning Academy opening ceremony was held on the 16th of April 2026 and was attended by 121 cadets. The event was also attended by representatives from V., the Indian Government and AMET, including Allan Falkenberg, COO, Marine HR, V., Ashish Wankhede – Dy. Chief Surveyor-cum-Sr. Deputy Director General (Technical), Government of India, and J. Ramachandran, Founder & Chancellor, AMET University.
Source: V.
