Enriching maritime vocational education with physical-sports activities

Introduction and Objective: The maritime sector increasingly acknowledges the vital role of physical-sports activities in enhancing the health and well-being of its workforce. This study investigates how physical-sports activities can be effectively integrated into maritime vocational education to improve health outcomes and professional readiness among maritime professionals in Indonesia. Methodology: A qualitative approach was employed, incorporating semi-structured interviews with maritime industry experts, educators, and senior cadets, alongside internship evaluation surveys. Thematic analysis was used to extract key themes and insights, focusing on the integration of sports education into curricula and its impact on physical and mental health. Results: The findings highlight significant benefits of physical-sports activities, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced stress management skills, and stronger teamwork capabilities. Educators identified innovative curriculum strategies such as interdisciplinary integration and simulation-based learning. Cadets reported increased physical fitness, mental resilience, and readiness for maritime challenges, supported by tailored sports education programmes. Conclusions: The study underscores the transformative potential of integrating physical-sports activities into maritime education. By fostering physical fitness and mental well-being, these programmes contribute to career sustainability and operational safety in the maritime sector. Recommendations include aligning curricula with industry needs, promoting educator training, and investing in resources to enhance programme effectiveness. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of sports education on career progression and health outcomes across diverse maritime contexts.