The Launch of  the Inaugural Textbook in Sinhala on Maritime Transportation

The maritime industry, driven by seafarers, is a major contributor to the economy of any nation. It provides employment opportunities, supports related industries (such as shipbuilding and logistics), and generates revenue through shipping fees and related services. The launch of this book on the National Seafarers’ Day in Sri Lanka displays the indispensability of systematic education in the capacity building in this highly complicated industry. I am very happy about the decision taken to incorporate Commercial Shipping and Maritime Science in the school curriculum because it is the most effective way to provide awareness to the next generation. It may lead to the personal development of children through a knowledge leading to employability and entrepreneurship in global perspective, thereby paving the way to national development, thus building a unique, wondrous, and prosperous Sri Lanka. Those who secure education in this field will achieve sustainable income in the means of foreign exchange  to Sri Lanka through fast-track job opportunities. Later with their lifelong experience at the international arena and the potential for high-income generation during a short span of time it creates a sustainable entrepreneurial environment in the country too. Therefore, providing the due recognition to seafaring by the government would be the key to create public awareness about the importance of  seafaring industry. It helps the much-needed capacity building efforts in the country. Immediate positive results are expected from this sensitive approach as it directly links with a cross section of the society covering schools, universities, all sectors in the industry and public. It is possible to make the public aware though this type of strategies about how each citizen of the country could contribute to this national effort for mutual benefits.

Publishing this book by CINEC Campus and the incorporation of the new subject  are expected to develop competencies under six major topics such as  i) Evolution of Shipping, ii) Commercial and Economics Context, iii) Technology push, iv) Indispensable Nature as a Transport Mode, v) Practical Skill Development, and vi) Interdisciplinary Connections. In terms of economics theory, shipping is termed as a ‘Derived demand. In other words, the demand for international shipping is derived from the need for transporting internationally traded goods. Sri Lanka is being an island the nation is much familiar about ships and ports. It is also located proximity to the East/West main sea route. Ports in Sri Lanka handle substantial amount of cargo originating and destined to various regional ports as a shipping hub. These transshipment volumes consist of more than seventy-five percent of the port throughput of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, this book not only refers to ports, ships, and shipping but it clarifies the indispensable nature of the international trading in the commercial