English for Specific Purposes (ESP) in the Blue Economy: Preparing Fisheries and Marine Students for Global Communication

Abstract

The growing importance of the Blue Economy has created new communication demands for students in fisheries and marine programmes, particularly in scientific research, sustainability discourse, maritime operations, policy engagement, and international collaboration. This study examines the role of English for Specific Purposes in preparing fisheries and marine students for effective participation in the global Blue Economy, using Dudley-Evans and St John’s ESP framework as its theoretical foundation. Adopting a conceptual and literature-based approach, the study draws on ESP scholarship, marine communication literature, policy documents, and curriculum materials to explore how ESP can address the discipline-specific linguistic and professional needs of learners in fisheries and marine education. The study identifies key communicative competencies required within the sector, including technical vocabulary, scientific and policy writing, oral presentation skills, marine safety communication, sustainability reporting, and intercultural communication. Findings show that ESP equips learners with specialized discourse practices and authentic communication skills that General English instruction alone cannot adequately provide. The study further demonstrates that ESP contributes to disciplinary identity formation, academic confidence, and professional readiness within the Blue Economy. The paper highlights implications for curriculum innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, authentic assessment, and institutional policy development. It concludes that integrating ESP into fisheries and marine programmes is essential for enhancing employability, strengthening professional communication, and supporting meaningful participation in global marine and sustainability initiatives.

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