In a decisive step toward preparing the maritime workforce for a low-carbon future, Peninsula, a leading global bunker supplier, has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Gibraltar to enhance education and training in alternative marine fuels. The collaboration was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at closing the emerging skills gap associated with the growing demand for cleaner fuels in shipping.
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Training for the Future of Maritime Energy
The agreement will see the establishment of a joint study group that will co-develop educational materials and training frameworks focused on alternative marine fuels — including liquefied natural gas (LNG), biofuels, ammonia, and methanol. This initiative will specifically address the operational, logistical, and technical aspects of transportation, storage, and supply of these fuels.
Crucially, the partnership will also facilitate guest lectures by Peninsula’s in-house subject matter experts, bringing real-world insight from the frontlines of global bunkering into the classroom. This ensures cadets and maritime professionals not only understand theory but gain firsthand exposure to industry practices, standards, and emerging technologies.
Industry Needs, Academic Excellence
The maritime industry is undergoing a profound transformation as it transitions toward low- and zero-carbon energy sources. However, the pace of change has outstripped the availability of skilled personnel trained to manage these new fuels safely and efficiently. This skills deficit poses a significant barrier to widespread adoption and is particularly pressing at the seafarer level.
John A. Bassadone, Founder and CEO of Peninsula, stressed the urgent need to address this issue “In line with the industry’s commitment to decarbonise, many of our customers are exploring alternative marine fuels such as LNG and biofuels for the first time — and the skills gap is quickly becoming a major hurdle. Simply put, the demand on the seafarer community will increase, and we want to be there to help customers close that gap.”
“Our motivation for partnering with the University of Gibraltar is to support our community, our customers, and the wider industry through this transition. The University has a strong track record of producing technically capable and industry-ready cadets, and we’re proud to help build on that success.”
By jointly developing a robust framework for specialised maritime training, Peninsula and the University aim to make upskilling more accessible and aligned with real industry demands, thereby supporting compliance with IMO regulations and global sustainability goals.
Academic Commitment to Maritime Evolution
Aaron Lopez, Head of the University’s Maritime Academy, highlighted the critical importance of empowering the next generation of maritime professionals “Seafarers are the backbone of the global economy, moving nearly all the world’s goods — often behind the scenes. As the marine fuel landscape evolves, so must their skill sets.”
“At the University of Gibraltar, we are committed to staying at the forefront of maritime education and training. Through our partnership with Peninsula — a global leader in the bunkering space — we will bring in valuable industry knowledge to directly address the skills shortfall associated with cleaner fuels.”
This initiative will not only benefit future cadets but also supports the reskilling and upskilling of current maritime professionals, positioning Gibraltar as a hub for advanced maritime learning and innovation in sustainable shipping.
About the University of Gibraltar
The University of Gibraltar offers internationally recognised education with a strong industry focus. Accredited by the UK Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), it provides a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional maritime courses. Uniquely, it is home to the only MCA-approved cadetship and degree programme in mainland Europe and offers UK-aligned training for the global seafaring community.
About Peninsula
Peninsula is one of the world’s leading physical marine fuel suppliers, with operations in key global bunkering hubs. The company supplies both conventional and alternative fuels and is actively investing in the infrastructure and capabilities required for the transition to zero-carbon energy sources, including ammonia and methanol.
In addition to fuel supply, Peninsula offers a full suite of marine services, including barging, ship agency, and an international in-house network for vessel repair and maintenance.
As the maritime energy transition accelerates, this partnership between Peninsula and the University of Gibraltar represents a forward-thinking model for public-private collaboration in maritime education — one that not only meets current industry needs, but also shapes the future of sustainable shipping.
Source Peninsula