The International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) has received a US$450,000 grant from The TK Foundation to develop the world’s first free global e-learning platform for maritime search and rescue (SAR) personnel and commercial seafarers.
The three-year initiative aims to strengthen international SAR capability and close critical training gaps for those who risk their lives at sea. Access to the platform will be free for SAR organisations and maritime professionals with limited resources, while IMRF members will benefit from full access to all modules.
The e-learning platform will be based on International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manuals, adapted for practical digital training. Alongside core operational principles such as planning, coordination and communication, the system will also address emerging topics including the impact of climate change, humanitarian mass rescue operations, and the 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.
“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.”
The TK Foundation is a private independent foundation named for J. Torben Karlshoej, ‘T.K.’, who grew up on a farm in Denmark and later founded the Teekay Shipping Company, now Teekay Corporation. Since its inception in 2002, the Foundation has awarded over $150 million in grants to non-profit organisations and projects to improve maritime and the lives of disadvantaged youth.
The IMRF will deliver the new programme in collaboration with a global advisory board and partners, building on the technical foundation of the existing IMRF SAR Academy, which has already supported students in more than 70 countries.
The first training modules are expected to launch in early 2026, with additional content to follow over the subsequent three years.
