World Hydrography Day: Seminar Explores Seabed Mapping

Seminar on Seabed Mapping Highlights Importance of Ocean Action and Women in Maritime

On 06 August 2025, a significant seminar was held at Trevessa House in Mer Rouge, focusing on the theme "Seabed Mapping - Enabling Ocean Action." This event coincided with the 2025 World Hydrography Day and International Day for Women in Maritime, highlighting the growing importance of ocean-related initiatives and gender inclusivity in maritime sectors.

The seminar was organized by the Women in the Maritime Sector in Eastern and Southern Africa, in partnership with the University of Mauritius, the Mauritius Hydrographic Service, and the Ministry of Housing and Lands. It aimed to bring together experts, professionals, and students from various fields to discuss the critical role of seabed mapping in supporting sustainable ocean practices.

Mauritius has long been recognized as a regional leader in hydrography, playing a key role in the Southern African and Islands Hydrographic Commission. The country also coordinates the S-100 initiative under the International Hydrographic Organisation, which focuses on standardizing marine data for global use.

During the seminar, Commander Poomari Kartik Muthukumar, Officer-in-Charge of the Mauritius Hydrographic Service, delivered a presentation emphasizing the strategic importance of hydrography for the nation. He highlighted how seabed mapping contributes to safe navigation, environmental protection, coastal resilience, and economic development. Mr. Muthukumar also encouraged younger generations, especially women, to consider careers in hydrography, describing it as "a mission, not just a profession."

The event featured a panel discussion and a Question and Answer session, allowing participants to engage in in-depth conversations about the challenges and opportunities in the field. A networking segment followed, creating valuable connections among attendees from academic, governmental, and maritime backgrounds. These interactions were instrumental in fostering collaboration towards a more sustainable and inclusive maritime future.

World Hydrography Day is celebrated annually on 21 June to raise awareness about the significance of hydrography in understanding and managing the world's seas and oceans. The 2025 theme, "Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action," underscores the need for accurate and up-to-date data to support environmental conservation and maritime activities.

In addition to World Hydrography Day, the 2025 International Day for Women in Maritime was observed, with the theme "An Ocean of Opportunities for Women." This day celebrates the increasing presence and leadership roles of women in the maritime sector, which has historically been male-dominated. The goal is to encourage more women to pursue careers in this field and to recognize their contributions to shaping a more equitable industry.

The seminar served as an important platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing, reinforcing the importance of international cooperation and innovation in ocean management. As the global community continues to address pressing environmental and economic challenges, initiatives like these play a vital role in promoting sustainable development and gender equality in the maritime sector.