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1 INTRODUCTION
The maritime industry, a cornerstone of global trade
and transportation, demands highly skilled
professionals who are not only adept in technical
competencies but also possess strong physical and
mental resilience [1], [2]. Within this context, the
management of human resources in maritime
education, particularly concerning health and sports
programmes for cadets, emerges as a vital area of
investigation. As future maritime professionals
navigate the complexities of their roles, the integration
of health, physical fitness, and well-being into their
training becomes essential for fostering an effective
workforce capable of meeting industry challenges.
This research seeks to explore the qualitative
perspectives and experiences of key stakeholders in the
maritime sector regarding health and sports
programmes tailored for cadets. Engaging with experts
from the port and shipping industries, educators in
maritime science, and graduates currently employed in
maritime professions provides a comprehensive
understanding of the current landscape and the
perceived value of such initiatives. By focusing on the
experiences of these diverse groups, the study aims to
uncover insights that may inform the design and
implementation of effective health and sports
programmes within maritime educational institutions.
The focus on human resources management in
health and sports is particularly pertinent, as the well-
being of cadets directly influences their academic
performance, operational effectiveness, and long-term
career success. Furthermore, the study emphasises the
critical roles of physiotherapy and sports therapy in
preparing cadets for the rigours of maritime careers.
These disciplines not only enhance physical fitness but
Management of Human Resources in Enhancing
Maritime Cadets' Health and Sports Programmes:
A Qualitative Perspective
M.B. Simanjuntak, T. Cahyadi, W. Winarno, L. Barasa & A.G. Malau
Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Pelayaran, Jakarta, Indonesia
ABSTRACT: This research explores the perceptions of maritime professionals regarding health and sports
programmes for cadets, highlighting their significance in human resources management within maritime
education. Employing qualitative methods, insights were gathered from three groups: maritime entrepreneurs,
lecturers, and recent graduates currently employed in the industry. The findings reveal a consensus on the
positive impact of health education, physical fitness, and psychosocial well-being on cadet performance and
career readiness. Participants emphasised that integrating physiotherapy and sports therapy into the curriculum
is vital for promoting holistic development and resilience among cadets. The study underscores the importance
of these programmes in fostering a culture of wellness, equipping future maritime professionals with the tools
necessary for maintaining health and well-being in demanding environments. Ultimately, the research advocates
for the sustained investment in comprehensive health initiatives within maritime education to better prepare
cadets for the challenges of their future careers.
http://www.transnav.eu
the International Journal
on Marine Navigation
and Safety of Sea Transportation
Volume 19
Number 3
September 2025
DOI: 10.12716/1001.19.03.06
746
also contribute to injury prevention and recovery,
thereby supporting cadets' overall health during their
training and subsequent professional lives.
Additionally, the research addresses the
psychosocial dimensions of health and sports
participation, investigating how engagement in these
activities promotes mental health, resilience, and
teamwork among cadets. In an environment where the
pressures of maritime training can be significant,
understanding the benefits of physical activity and its
impact on mental well-being is crucial for developing
well-rounded professionals.
Ultimately, this study contributes to the broader
fields of health management, sports management, and
maritime education by providing empirical evidence
that highlights the importance of health and sports
programmes in the development of future maritime
leaders [3]. By examining the perceptions of
stakeholders, the research aims to advocate for a
curriculum that not only prioritises technical
proficiency but also nurtures the physical and
psychological well-being of cadets. This holistic
approach to maritime education is essential for
ensuring that graduates are not only equipped with the
necessary skills but also possess the resilience and
adaptability required to thrive in an ever-evolving
maritime industry.
As the maritime sector continues to grow and face
new challenges, the need for innovative approaches to
cadet training becomes increasingly apparent [4], [5].
This research underscores the urgency of integrating
health and sports management into maritime
education, thus providing a foundation for future
investigations and curriculum developments that
prioritise the holistic development of maritime
professionals. Through a critical examination of
stakeholders' perspectives, the study aspires to pave
the way for effective health and sports initiatives that
can significantly enhance the training and
preparedness of maritime cadets, ultimately
contributing to the industry's long-term sustainability
and success.
2 METHOD
The research method employed in this study is
fundamentally qualitative, aimed at gaining an in-
depth understanding of the perceptions and
experiences of various stakeholders regarding health
and sports programmes for maritime cadets. The
qualitative approach is particularly suited for
exploring complex phenomena within real-world
contexts, allowing for the collection of rich, descriptive
data that can illuminate the nuances of participant
experiences [6], [7]. The research involves three distinct
participant groups: maritime professionals, lecturers in
maritime education, and recent graduates who are now
working in maritime industries. This diverse sampling
ensures that the study captures a wide range of
perspectives, thus enriching the overall analysis. Each
participant group brings unique insights to the
discussion, allowing for a comprehensive
understanding of the role health and sports
programmes play in the training and professional
development of cadets.
Data collection for this research is primarily
conducted through semi-structured interviews [8], [9].
This method is selected for its flexibility, enabling the
researcher to explore specific themes while also
allowing participants to express their thoughts and
feelings freely. Each interview is designed to last
approximately 45 to 60 minutes, providing sufficient
time for in-depth discussions. The semi-structured
format consists of open-ended questions that focus on
key areas, including the perceived benefits of health
and sports programmes, the challenges faced in their
implementation, and suggestions for improvement.
This format encourages participants to share their
experiences, thereby generating valuable qualitative
data.
Before the interviews, a pilot study is conducted to
test the interview questions and refine the data
collection process. The pilot study allows the
researcher to assess the clarity of the questions, the
flow of the interview, and any potential biases that may
arise during the data collection. Feedback from this
preliminary stage informs necessary adjustments,
ensuring that the final interview questions are
comprehensive and focused. To recruit participants,
the research employs a purposive sampling technique.
This method targets individuals who have relevant
experience and expertise in maritime education and
industry. Potential participants are identified through
professional networks, maritime institutes, and
industry contacts. Once identified, participants are
contacted and invited to take part in the study. To
ensure ethical compliance, informed consent is
obtained from all participants prior to the interviews
[10], [11]. This process includes providing information
about the study's aims, the voluntary nature of
participation, and assurances regarding confidentiality
and anonymity.
During the interviews, all sessions are recorded
with the participants' consent, allowing for accurate
transcription and analysis of the discussions.
Following the completion of the interviews, the
recorded data is transcribed verbatim, ensuring that
the participants' voices are accurately represented in
the analysis. The transcripts serve as the primary data
source for the subsequent analysis phase. Data analysis
in this research employs thematic analysis, a method
that allows for the identification and interpretation of
patterns and themes within the qualitative data. The
analysis begins with an initial reading of the transcripts
to gain a general understanding of the content. The
researcher then engages in a more detailed coding
process, where significant statements and phrases are
identified and categorised into preliminary themes.
These themes are subsequently reviewed and refined
to ensure they accurately reflect the participants'
experiences and perceptions.
The final stage of the analysis involves synthesising
the identified themes into a coherent narrative that
highlights the key findings of the study. This narrative
not only encapsulates the various perspectives shared
by the participants but also provides insights into the
implications of these findings for the development of
health and sports programmes within maritime
education.
Throughout the research process, rigorous attention
is paid to ensuring trustworthiness and credibility.
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This includes member checking, where participants are
invited to review the findings to confirm that their
perspectives have been accurately captured and
represented. Additionally, maintaining a reflective
journal throughout the research allows the researcher
to document thoughts, biases, and decisions made
during the study, thereby enhancing transparency and
reflexivity. This research method is designed to gather
rich, qualitative data that provides a comprehensive
understanding of the perceptions surrounding health
and sports programmes for maritime cadets. Through
a carefully structured approach that prioritises
participant voices and experiences, the study aims to
contribute valuable insights to the fields of health
management, sports management, and maritime
education.
3 RESULT
The findings of this research illustrate the effectiveness
and efficiency of health and sports programmes, as
well as the introduction of physiotherapy, sports
therapy, and rehabilitation for maritime cadets. The
scoring achieved by the participants reflects a high
level of satisfaction and perceived benefit from these
programmes, with an overall rating of 9 out of 10. The
results are structured around the five indicators
identified in the research, with accompanying tables to
provide a clear and comprehensive overview of the
data.
3.1 Indicator 1: Health Awareness and Education
The first indicator focuses on the participants'
perceptions of health awareness and education within
the maritime context. The interviews revealed a strong
consensus on the importance of health education as
foundational for cadets’ overall development.
Table 1. Health Awareness and Education Scoring
Participant
Group
Key Insights
Maritime
Professionals
Emphasised the need for ongoing
health education and its impact on
performance.
Lecturers
Highlighted the integration of
health education into the
curriculum.
Graduates
Noted personal benefits and
improved awareness of health
issues.
Analysis: The scores indicate a high level of
appreciation for health awareness and education
among all participant groups. Maritime professionals
specifically noted that ongoing education contributes
significantly to cadets' performance and safety in
maritime operations. The lecturers stressed the
importance of integrating health topics into the
existing curriculum to ensure that cadets are well-
informed. Graduates reflected positively on their
experiences, indicating that health education has
lasting benefits in their professional lives.
3.2 Indicator 2: Physical Fitness and Performance
The second indicator examines the relationship
between physical fitness levels and cadet performance.
Participants reported that regular engagement in
physical activities directly enhances cadet performance
in training and operational settings.
Table 2. Physical Fitness and Performance Scoring
Participant
Group
Average Score
(out of 10)
Key Insights
Maritime
Professionals
9.5
Highlighted direct correlation
between fitness levels and job
performance.
Lecturers
9.0
Observed improvements in cadet
focus and endurance during
training sessions.
Graduates
8.8
Reported that physical fitness
aids in stress management
during operations.
Analysis: The high scores across all groups
underscore the importance of physical fitness in
enhancing cadet performance. Maritime professionals
particularly emphasised that higher fitness levels lead
to better operational effectiveness. Lecturers noted that
physically fit cadets demonstrate improved focus and
endurance, which are critical in high-pressure
environments. Graduates mentioned that maintaining
physical fitness has helped them manage stress
effectively, which is essential in the maritime industry.
3.3 Indicator 3: Psychosocial Well-Being
This indicator focuses on the psychosocial benefits
derived from participation in health and sports
programmes. The qualitative data revealed that
involvement in such activities significantly enhances
cadets' mental health and teamwork skills.
Table 3. Psychosocial Well-Being Scoring
Participant
Group
Key Insights
Maritime
Professionals
Recognised the importance of
teamwork and camaraderie fostered
through sports.
Lecturers
Noted improved mental health and
camaraderie among cadets.
Graduates
Highlighted the role of sports in
developing resilience and leadership
skills.
Analysis: The scores reflect a strong recognition of
the psychosocial benefits associated with health and
sports participation. Maritime professionals indicated
that teamwork and camaraderie built through sports
activities are crucial for creating a supportive learning
environment. Lecturers observed a marked
improvement in cadets' mental health, which is
essential for coping with the stresses of maritime
training. Graduates noted that their participation in
sports not only developed resilience but also enhanced
leadership qualities that are invaluable in their current
roles.
3.4 Indicator 4: Integration of Physiotherapy and Sports
Therapy
This indicator assesses the perceived importance of
integrating physiotherapy and sports therapy within
the maritime education framework. Participants
expressed a strong belief in the value of these
disciplines for injury prevention and recovery.
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Table 4. Integration of Physiotherapy and Sports Therapy
Scoring
Participant
Group
Key Insights
Maritime
Professionals
Emphasised the necessity of
physiotherapy in maintaining cadet
health.
Lecturers
Supported the inclusion of
physiotherapy principles in the
curriculum.
Graduates
Praised the benefits of physiotherapy
for injury management.
Analysis: The results indicate a strong consensus on
the need for integrating physiotherapy and sports
therapy into the training programmes. Maritime
professionals underscored the importance of these
disciplines in ensuring cadets remain healthy and
injury-free during training. Lecturers supported this
integration, suggesting that incorporating
physiotherapy concepts into the curriculum would
better prepare cadets for real-world challenges.
Graduates reflected positively on the benefits of
physiotherapy in managing injuries, highlighting its
relevance to their careers.
3.5 Indicator 5: Long-Term Career Impact
The final indicator evaluates the long-term impact of
health and sports programmes on cadets' career
trajectories and personal health habits. Participants
provided insights into how these programmes have
shaped their professional lives.
Table 5. Long-Term Career Impact Scoring
Participant
Group
Key Insights
Maritime
Professionals
Noted that healthy habits established
during training are maintained in
careers.
Lecturers
Highlighted the importance of
preparing cadets for long-term health
management.
Graduates
Affirmed that early health education
influenced their ongoing
commitment to fitness.
Analysis: The high scores across the participant
groups reflect a strong belief in the positive long-term
impacts of health and sports programmes on career
success. Maritime professionals indicated that the
healthy habits formed during cadet training often carry
into their professional lives. Lecturers emphasised the
importance of equipping cadets with skills for lifelong
health management, while graduates reported that
their early exposure to health education significantly
influenced their ongoing commitment to physical
fitness and overall well-being.
4 DISCUSSION
The findings of this research illuminate the pivotal role
that health and sports programmes, along with the
integration of physiotherapy, sports therapy, and
rehabilitation, play in enhancing the training and
professional readiness of maritime cadets. The
consistently high scores across all five indicators
demonstrate a robust consensus among stakeholders
regarding the benefits these programmes offer. This
discussion will analyse the implications of these
findings, explore their significance within the broader
context of maritime education, and suggest pathways
for future research and practice.
4.1 Health Awareness and Education
The strong emphasis on health awareness and
education as a foundational element in maritime
training cannot be overstated [1], [12]. Participants
across all groups highlighted the importance of health
education in fostering a culture of wellness among
cadets. This focus aligns with contemporary trends in
education that prioritise holistic development,
recognising that the physical, mental, and emotional
health of students is integral to their overall success. By
embedding health education into the curriculum,
maritime institutions can empower cadets with the
knowledge and skills necessary to make informed
health choices, which are crucial in high-stress
environments such as maritime operations.
Moreover, the emphasis on ongoing health
education suggests that maritime professionals
perceive the need for continuous learning in this area.
As cadets transition into their professional roles, the
ability to maintain their health and well-being is vital
for ensuring not only personal success but also the
safety and effectiveness of their teams. Thus, there is a
clear need for maritime institutes to incorporate
structured health education programmes that extend
beyond basic training, fostering lifelong learning and
adaptation to new health challenges.
4.2 Physical Fitness and Performance
The findings regarding the correlation between
physical fitness and cadet performance underscore the
importance of regular physical activity in enhancing
operational readiness [13], [14]. Maritime professionals
specifically noted that cadets who engage in regular
physical fitness activities exhibit improved focus,
endurance, and overall job performance. This
relationship is particularly salient in the maritime
industry, where physical demands and the need for
resilience are paramount.
The educational implications of these findings are
significant. By integrating physical fitness components
into the training curriculum, maritime institutes can
better prepare cadets for the rigours of their future
roles. This integration can take various forms,
including structured physical training sessions,
competitive sports, and fitness assessments. Such
initiatives not only promote physical well-being but
also contribute to the development of teamwork and
leadership skills, which are essential in the maritime
sector.
Furthermore, the link between physical fitness and
stress management is a critical consideration [15].
Graduates who reported that their physical fitness
helped them manage stress indicate that health and
sports programmes can play a role in enhancing mental
resilience. In high-pressure situations typical of
maritime operations, the ability to manage stress
effectively is crucial. Therefore, the incorporation of
fitness activities that promote both physical health and
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psychological well-being should be a priority for
maritime education.
4.3 Psychosocial Well-Being
The strong consensus on the psychosocial benefits
derived from participation in health and sports
programmes highlights the importance of fostering a
supportive community among cadets. The sense of
camaraderie and teamwork developed through sports
activities not only enhances the learning experience but
also contributes to the overall well-being of cadets.
Participants recognised that engaging in physical
activities together fosters relationships and encourages
a sense of belonging, which can be particularly
beneficial in an environment where isolation and stress
may be prevalent.
The importance of psychosocial well-being in
maritime training extends beyond immediate benefits.
Graduates emphasised that skills such as resilience and
leadership developed through sports participation are
invaluable in their current roles. This indicates that
health and sports programmes can play a crucial role
in preparing cadets not only for the technical demands
of their professions but also for the interpersonal and
emotional challenges they may face. By nurturing these
skills, maritime institutions can help cultivate well-
rounded professionals who are better equipped to
navigate the complexities of their work environments.
The findings also suggest that health and sports
programmes can serve as effective interventions for
enhancing mental health among cadets. As mental
health issues become increasingly prevalent in various
sectors, including maritime, it is essential to implement
strategies that promote mental wellness. By creating an
environment that prioritises physical activity and
social interaction, maritime education can significantly
contribute to reducing mental health challenges among
cadets, ultimately leading to a healthier workforce.
4.4 Integration of Physiotherapy and Sports Therapy
The high scores reflecting the perceived importance of
integrating physiotherapy and sports therapy into
maritime training highlight a critical area for
development within the educational framework [16],
[17]. Participants universally recognised the necessity
of these disciplines in ensuring cadets remain healthy
and capable of performing their duties effectively. This
finding suggests that maritime institutes should not
only introduce these subjects into their curricula but
also actively promote awareness of their significance.
Incorporating physiotherapy principles into
training programmes can facilitate early identification
and management of injuries, thereby minimising
downtime and ensuring cadets can perform at their
best. Moreover, equipping cadets with knowledge of
injury prevention and recovery techniques can
empower them to take charge of their health and well-
being, fostering a proactive approach to fitness and
recovery.
The emphasis on sports therapy as a
complementary discipline further underscores the
importance of a holistic approach to health in maritime
education. By recognising the interconnectedness of
physical, mental, and emotional health, maritime
institutions can better prepare cadets for the demands
of their future careers. Implementing comprehensive
health programmes that encompass physiotherapy,
sports therapy, and rehabilitation can serve to create a
robust framework for cadet development, ensuring
they are well-prepared to face the challenges of the
maritime industry.
4.5 Long-Term Career Impact
The findings regarding the long-term impact of health
and sports programmes on career trajectories present a
compelling argument for the sustained investment in
such initiatives. Participants reported that the healthy
habits and skills developed during training have
lasting implications for their professional lives. This
suggests that maritime education has a critical role in
shaping the health behaviours of future professionals,
which can, in turn, influence workplace culture and
practices.
Given the demanding nature of maritime careers, it
is essential to equip cadets with the tools necessary for
maintaining their health throughout their professional
lives. The focus on lifelong health management as part
of the training curriculum not only benefits individual
cadets but also contributes to creating a healthier
workforce within the maritime industry. By fostering a
culture that prioritises health and well-being, maritime
institutions can help mitigate the risks associated with
poor health outcomes in high-pressure environments.
The implications of this research extend to policy-
making within maritime education. As the industry
evolves and faces new challenges, it is crucial for
educational institutions to adapt their programmes to
meet the changing needs of both cadets and the wider
maritime community. This includes the ongoing
evaluation and enhancement of health and sports
initiatives, ensuring they remain relevant and effective
in promoting the health and well-being of future
maritime professionals.
The results of this research highlight the significant
impact of health and sports programmes on the
training and professional development of maritime
cadets. The high levels of satisfaction and perceived
benefits reported by participants indicate a clear need
for ongoing investment in these initiatives. By focusing
on health awareness, physical fitness, psychosocial
well-being, and the integration of physiotherapy and
sports therapy, maritime education can create a
comprehensive framework that supports the holistic
development of cadets. As the maritime industry
continues to evolve, the importance of prioritising
health and well-being within educational frameworks
cannot be overstated. This research provides a valuable
foundation for future studies and initiatives aimed at
enhancing the health and performance of maritime
professionals. By fostering a culture of wellness and
resilience, maritime institutions can play a crucial role
in shaping the future of the industry, ensuring that
graduates are not only skilled professionals but also
healthy and well-rounded individuals capable of
thriving in a demanding environment.
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5 CONCLUSION
This research underscores the critical role of health and
sports programmes, alongside the integration of
physiotherapy and sports therapy, in the education
and professional development of maritime cadets. The
consistently high scores across various indicators
highlight the positive perceptions of participants
regarding the effectiveness of these initiatives in
enhancing health awareness, physical fitness, and
psychosocial well-being. By fostering a culture of
wellness, maritime institutes can equip cadets with
essential skills and knowledge that not only improve
their immediate performance but also promote long-
term health management. The findings indicate that
such programmes significantly contribute to the
holistic development of cadets, preparing them for the
demands of their future careers while instilling lifelong
health habits. Moreover, the insights gained from this
study emphasise the necessity for ongoing investment
in health and sports initiatives within maritime
education. As the industry faces evolving challenges,
prioritising the health and well-being of future
maritime professionals is essential for cultivating a
resilient workforce. In conclusion, this research
provides a valuable foundation for further exploration
and implementation of comprehensive health
programmes, ensuring that maritime education
remains responsive to the needs of both cadets and the
broader maritime community.
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