Story of the Year 2023

Reflecting on the insightful Port Courses of 2023

Looking back on 2023, we organised a diverse range of port courses, covering topics from various perspectives, with enriching and valuable sessions. These port courses serve as evidence of our dedication to sharing knowledge and expertise, as well as fostering connections within the global community of port professionals.

In the annual calendar, we composed a total of 13 port courses, comprising 9 courses in English and 4 courses in French. Utilizing an innovative online learning platform, we structured these courses in two distinct formats:

  • a blend of online sessions coupled with live visits in Belgium
  • a two-week intensive live session, held exclusively in Belgium

  • Port Management & Strategic Masterplanning
    • This course delves into the strategy and port governance model that optimises the growth of a port. Additionally, it reveals all the aspects related to port master planning.

  • International Port Strategy
    • In cooperation with Antwerp Management School & IAPH, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of the global port industry as a key component of the global value chain. Esteemed international port and maritime experts around the globe have led the participants through in-depth discussions on various topics.

  • Dredging Technologies
    • Two major dredging companies, DEME Group and Jan De Nul Group, join forces to provide the essence of know-how on Dredging Technologies.

  • Gestion et Stratégie Portuaire
    • The French version of Port Management and Strategy provides an understanding of all aspects of a master plan and port strategy & port governance models.

  • Port Logistics & Logistique Portuaire
    • The logistics course was held in English and French and provides a thorough understanding of the crucial responsibilities and functions of each party in the supply chain, as well as the principles of value-added logistics and efficient supply chain management.  

  • Port Business Analysis, Development & Marketing
    • The course encompassed essential areas of port business development such as commercial growth, business attraction, and the expansion of port platforms, ensuring participants acquire a well-rounded skill set. 
  • Smart Port Technologies
    • This course presents established and emerging technologies in smart port development and helps participants gain insights and skills in digital transformation in the port.

  • Santé, Sécurité, Environnement et Qualité
    • This French course focuses on effective safety, environmental, and quality management in the port and logistics industry.

  • Supply Chain Management & Hinterland Connectivity
    • This course provides insights into the drastic transformation of global supply chains and its impact on the port environment. 

  • Green Ports
    • This course is designed to tackle the challenges in green port development, providing insights into fostering port sustainable growth.

  • Opérations et Services Portuaires
    • A French course with a focus on long-term port strategy and proper monitoring of strategic projects for the sustainable development of a port.

  • Port Management & Strategic Masterplanning
    • This course delves into the strategy and port governance model that optimizes the growth of a port. Additionally, it reveals all the aspects related to port master planning.

  • Container Terminal Management
    • This course provided a profound understanding of container terminal management and the evolving factors that impact its development. 

Highlighting the participant’s journey

Among the many inspiring stories that emerged from these port courses, one that stands out is the remarkable journey of three participants from Honduras, who participated in the port logistics course.

In the video below, they shared their experiences from the APEC course in their professional lives.

13 tailor-made courses were held during the year: Asia-exclusive, tailor-made trainings for Nigerian Shippers Council, Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, Port of Gdansk, Porto do Açu, Centre Trainmar de Dakar, Barbados Port Inc., Porto de Luanda and Khimji Ramdas

As we continue to organise and host these port courses, we invite all alumni to actively participate, share their stories and contribute to the knowledge & experience exchange, engaging in the international connection that defines our community.

Thank you for being a vital part of APEC. To be continued in 2024.