The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has secured a substantial grant of US$450,000 from The TK Foundation, setting the stage for the creation of the first global e-learning system tailored for the maritime search and rescue (SAR) sector.
This initiative represents a pivotal step forward in enhancing the proficiency of SAR and shipping professionals, addressing significant training deficiencies for those risking their lives at sea.
Global Access and Sustainability
Accessibility and sustainability are central to this project, as the platform will be made available free of charge to SAR organisations and maritime professionals with limited resources. IMRF members will have comprehensive access to all resources on offer.
High-quality SAR Training
Over the course of three years, the IMRF programme will develop interactive, scenario-based e-learning modules. The venture is crucial considering the approximately 300,000 drownings annually across global waters, affecting seafarers, ferry passengers, fishers, and migrants alike.
This initiative, backed by The TK Foundation, aims to provide SAR personnel and commercial shipping crews consistent, high-quality training at no cost, using a curriculum based on the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manuals.
Content and Challenges
The framework will cover core SAR principles such as planning and coordination, alongside contemporary challenges like climate change, humanitarian mass rescue operations, and the mental health and well-being of personnel.
Caroline Jupe, Chief Executive Officer of the IMRF, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Building the capability and confidence of those involved in rescue operations is vital to saving lives at sea, and this project will help make that possible for all.”
TK Foundation Support
Dennis Treleaven, Maritime Program Officer at The TK Foundation, commented on the initiative, stating, “The IMRF’s e-learning initiative is an innovative and practical response to one of the most pressing challenges in maritime safety. By investing in training, we’re investing in people, the rescuers, crews, and communities who depend on these vital skills to save lives.”
The TK Foundation is recognised for its dedication to advancing maritime education, improving seafarer welfare, and promoting community resilience through substantial funding.
The Role of the IMRF SAR Academy
The project, led by a global advisory board and partners, uses the IMRF SAR Academy as its technical foundation. This academy has already engaged learners in over 70 countries.
The programme will be showcased and implemented in live train-the-trainer events, with the initial modules scheduled for launch in early 2026, followed by ongoing content releases over three years.
The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has secured a major grant worth US$450,000 from The TK Foundation to create the world’s first free global e-learning system for the maritime search and rescue (SAR) sector.
The project marks a major milestone in international efforts to strengthen the capabilities of key SAR and shipping personnel, and close critical training gaps for those who continue to put their lives at risk at sea.
To ensure equitable access and long-term sustainability, the platform will be free to SAR organisations and maritime professionals with limited resources, with IMRF members also benefiting from full access.
High-quality training
IMRF’s new three-year programme will develop a suite of interactive, scenario-based e-learning modules
Every year, about 300,000 people drown around the world's waters. This includes many seafarers, ferry passengers, fishers, and migrants, who often lose their lives in situations where enhanced training could make all the difference.
Backed by The TK Foundation, the IMRF’s new three-year programme will develop a suite of interactive, scenario-based e-learning modules, giving SAR personnel and commercial shipping crews free access to consistent, high-quality training wherever they operate.
The e-learning platform will be based on the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manuals, transforming its global framework into accessible, interactive learning content.
Addressing emerging challenges
Alongside core SAR principles such as planning, coordination and communication, the system will address emerging challenges, including climate change, the evolving demands of humanitarian mass rescue operations as well as mental health and wellbeing of SAR personnel.
“Building the capability and confidence of those involved in rescue operations is vital to saving lives at sea, and this project will help make that possible for all,” said Caroline Jupe, Chief Executive Officer of the IMRF.
She adds, “This funding will enable us to create a global learning platform that strengthens the knowledge and practical experience of SAR personnel and commercial shipping crews worldwide, giving them the skills and confidence they need to respond effectively when every second counts.”
IMRF’s e-learning initiative
TK Foundation is a major maritime philanthropic organisation supporting programmes that advance maritime education
Dennis Treleaven, Maritime Program Officer at The TK Foundation, said: “The IMRF’s e-learning initiative is an innovative and practical response to one of the most pressing challenges in maritime safety. By investing in training, we’re investing in people, the rescuers, crews and communities who depend on these vital skills to save lives.”
The TK Foundation is a major maritime philanthropic organisation supporting programmes that advance maritime education, improve seafarer welfare and strengthen community resilience.
It has a long-standing reputation within the global shipping industry for funding projects that enhance safety, training and sustainability.
IMRF SAR Academy
The IMRF will deliver the project in collaboration with a global advisory board and partners. The IMRF SAR Academy, which has already reached learners in more than 70 countries, will provide the technical foundation for the programme.
The use of the system as part of the training will be illustrated and worked on in live train-the-trainer events. The first training modules will be launched in early 2026, with further content released gradually over the next three years.
