STCW stands for the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. It is a set of minimum standards established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that applies to all seafarers worldwide.
STCW certification is a process of ensuring that seafarers meet the minimum standards of competence and proficiency in their roles on board ships, as set out in the STCW convention. This certification is required for all seafarers who are serving on ships that are subject to the STCW convention, which includes most commercial vessels.