The Cyprus Shipping Chamber held a special anniversary event on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, at the Limassol Port Passenger Terminal to mark 20 years since the launch of its flagship educational Program, “Adopt a Ship”. The event highlighted the program’s enduring contribution to fostering a maritime culture among Cyprus’s younger generation.

The ceremony was attended by the Shipping Deputy Minister to the President, Mrs. Marina Hadjimanolis, as well as Mr. Genethlis Genethliou, Chief Education Officer from the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth. Also in attendance were Members of the Chamber, teachers and students from primary schools across Cyprus who are actively participating in the programme. The event provided a platform for students to share firsthand accounts of their experiences with “Adopt a Ship”, followed by an educational tour of the Limassol Port, offering both children and teachers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Cyprus’s maritime operations.

The “Adopt a Ship” Programme is a pioneering educational initiative by the Chamber that brings primary school students into direct contact with the world of shipping and seafarers. Through interactive activities, such as regular correspondence with ship crews, children gain valuable insights into daily life at sea, the vital importance of global trade and the necessity of protecting the marine environment.

Since its official launch in 2006, the Programme has charted an impressive course: 1,275 ships have been “adopted” by corresponding school classes, with more than 25,000 students discovering the world of shipping through this immersive experience. Today, the Programme has evolved into a recognised educational model that has already been implemented in five other countries. The success of the initiative is the result of close cooperation between the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and the Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (CYMEPA), with the official support of the Ministry of Education and the Shipping Deputy Ministry.

This initiative serves as a cornerstone of the Chamber’s overarching strategy to cultivate a robust maritime culture within Cyprus. Beyond the primary school level, this mission is reinforced through a comprehensive outreach program, including nationwide career fairs and specialised presentations. By engaging with students from junior high through to the university level, the Chamber remains dedicated to promoting the dynamic and diverse career pathways offered by the maritime industry.

Taking this opportunity, we express our sincere thanks to our Member-Company, DP World for hosting our event at Limassol Port Passengers Terminal.