Adopt a Vocational High School (EPAL)™️

The "Adopt A Ship™️" program by PROJECT CONNECT is one of the most successful and innovative initiatives in maritime education, having positively impacted more than 18,000 students across Greece since 2018. A particularly significant milestone has been its expansion to EPAL (Vocational High Schools), which provides specialized technical and vocational education. Since its introduction to these schools in 2023, 23 out of 33 maritime EPAL in Greece have systematically adopted the program.

However, 82.4% of students and educators have highlighted a lack of laboratory equipment, which limits their ability to gain practical skills.

Additionally, the limited connection with the maritime industry makes it difficult for students to secure hands-on training and job placement opportunities. Strengthening this initiative is crucial, as only 20% of EPAL students continue their studies at Merchant Marine Academies (AEN), while the majority report struggling to find practical training opportunities.

To bridge this gap, PROJECT CONNECT is expanding the program by introducing “Adopt a Vocational High School (EPAL)™️” for shipping companies. This initiative aims to enhance hands-on training, familiarize students with the maritime industry, and strengthen their connection to the job market.

The support of a shipping company can take various forms, such as:

• Providing laboratory equipment (e.g., navigational instruments, software).
• Facilitating internships via CONNECT CV-HR PLATFORM.
• Mentoring by company professionals.
• Organizing ship visits and company office tours to provide real-world exposure.
• Providing Marine Academy scholarships to outstanding students facing financial difficulties.

"Adopt a Vocational High School (EPAL) ™️" is not just a corporate social responsibility initiative—it is an investment in the future of Greek shipping. We invite you to participate with us and play a key role in shaping the next generation of maritime professionals, securing highly skilled talent for the industry.

If you are interested, please contact us at bridge@project-connect.gr    with subject line “Adopt a Vocational High School (EPAL)™️” .