GPH Opens Its Ports to 350 Students from the Next-Gen Program

Following the recent launch of the Next-Gen program, GPH terminals across the network have already welcomed over 350 students through a series of educational activities, allowing them to gain firsthand insight into the cruise and maritime industry and its diverse career opportunities.

Global Ports Holding (GPH) launched its Next-Gen program across its global network of 35 cruise ports in 20 countries. This initiative introduces students to the dynamic world of tourist ships, port operations, and maritime professional careers, bringing young people closer to the heart of port operations.

In collaboration with partner cruise lines, participating ports welcomed students for guided terminal tours, industry presentations, operational briefings, and exclusive ship tours, designed to showcase the numerous career opportunities available both at sea and ashore.

Next-Gen serves as a fundamental bridge between the classroom and the port, offering participants direct experience in terminal management, passenger flow, port infrastructure, maritime technology, security, customer services, and the daily coordination required during a cruise ship's call.

By observing a port's operations on a call day, students gained a better understanding of the people, systems, and services that combine to provide a seamless experience for both passengers and crew.

The program also highlights the wide range of high-growth career paths within the cruise and maritime sectors, including port operations, engineering, logistics, hospitality, security, destination management, sustainability, technology, and specialized onshore services.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, stated that "here we celebrate the dedication of seafarers worldwide, both within GPH and across our global network. Our Next-Gen program represents our commitment to the future by opening our ports and providing students with an immersive, hands-on experience in the maritime industry. The sector offers a wide range of rewarding careers, both at sea and ashore. Through the Next-Gen program, we help young people understand the opportunities available and encourage them to consider a future in our industry."

The Next-Gen Program reflects GPH's commitment to community engagement, maritime education, and local talent development. By opening its ports to students and strengthening cooperation with cruise lines, the company contributes to creating a stronger talent pipeline for the ever-evolving global cruise market.

As the cruise and maritime sectors continue to evolve, attracting and developing the next generation of talent remains fundamental to driving future growth, innovation, and operational excellence across the industry.