Maritime Students Dive into Real-World Learning with Field Trips

BY: .

Students from the UKZN Unit of Maritime Law and Maritime Studies went on two enriching field trips that provided an in-depth, hands-on experience in the maritime field. The trips aimed to bridge theoretical learning with practical exposure, preparing students for the complex realities of maritime law.

The excursions involved students from the Master of Maritime Law and Postgraduate Diploma in Maritime Studies programmes who visited Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), where they were welcomed by Mr Kiran Parthab, Acting Manager of New Business Development, and Ms Khanyisile Buthelezi, Regional Head of Legal Services. Through engaging presentations and discussions, the TNPA provided students with a close-up view of TNPA’s operations, covering the intricate legal frameworks that govern port activities.

Despite the cancellation of a planned waterside tour due to bad weather and port congestion, Professor Trevor Jones led an alternative “water’s edge” tour from Wilson’s Wharf. This experience offered students the chance to observe various vessel types and terminal operations, allowing them to witness the practical side of maritime law and port activities.

Students continued their educational journey with a visit to the Durban University of Technology (DUT), where they experienced the institution’s state-of-the-art ship simulator laboratory. An interactive lecture on navigational bridge equipment introduced students to the complexities of seafaring, including a close look at maritime collision scenarios. This hands-on session was particularly valuable for students interested in the practical aspects of maritime law and seafaring regulations, offering them an immersive insight into the realities faced by professionals in the field.

Last week, students had the opportunity to attend the Africa Maritime Investment Indaba at the ICC Durban. Meeting entrepreneurs, captains of industry and government leaders gave students insights into the challenges and opportunities in the sector. In the panel discussion on aquaculture, UKZN’s Professor Andre Vosloo presented a fascinating address the science-backed solutions developed by UKZN for abalone farmers. 

These field trips and other emphasised UKZN’s commitment to blending academic rigor with real-world experience, reinforcing students’ holistic understanding of the maritime sector.

Words: Samukelisiwe Cele

Photographs: Supplied