in which the demand and supply of shipboard work force can be
automatically adjusted.
However, in order to practice a really successful mixed manning, all
mixed personnel aboard the ship are badly requested to possess a strong will to create the
ethics, common to all mankinds, to share the sea life together, though it may not be an
easy task.
In addition a basic problem to fill the technical gaps between partners
has to be solved smoothly and that the development of information support system by making
use of the new communication media and networks will be needed to protect ships from the
lack of information on safety and maintenance.
Anyway, clearly known to us is that it is indispensable for seafarers
to upgrade their seamanship to the utmost extent in order to treat any shipboard failures
flexibly with the support of the accumulated science technology at high sea where
seafarers always face natural violent force and its change in the heavy traffic
congestions caused by many and various kinds of ships.
It then would lead to the IMO's goal of "Safer Ships and Cleaner
Oceans".
From now on for about one week, the Conference and Workshop meetings
will continue as scheduled. I sincerely hope that all of these meetings will end up with
great success and such a mood will be succeeded to the next Conference meeting.
Finally Merchant Marine Institute of Japan, Kobe University of
Mercantile Marine, World Maritime University and International Maritime Lecturers'
Association that have been engaged in the preparations in close cooperation with each
other as co-host organizations, would like to appreciate, in particular; The Nippon
Foundation and Japan Maritime Promoting Association for supporting us financially to hold
this Conference, We also would like to thank Ministry of Transport and other friendly
organization for their kind help and support to promote the holding of this Conference
from the bottom of our hearts.
