Over $2.3mn will be given to new programme for seafarers

The Certificate of Competency (Special Limits) will help seafarers secure placement with potential employers even before they embark on training.

According to Singapore Workforce Development Agency, the programme will also prepare seafarers to perform the required tasks on board ships such as navigation, operation of bunker tankers, and passenger vessels.

The programme was launched by the MPA, in collaboration with the National Trades Union Congress', Employment and Employability Institute and WDA.

Seafarers can now look forward to serve on board ships operating up to the “Special Limits”. As the ships ply near Singapore, seafarers can minimise having to engage in long international voyages, thereby reducing the time spent apart from their families.

Training programme offers wide theory and practical exposure
The 21-month programme will cover hands-on training for practical seamanship, boat handling and survival techniques.

The CoC (Special Limits) programme has been developed in close consultation with industry players like the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) and the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union, to help create awareness and increase the skill and manpower needs within the maritime industry. This new programme will see 60 trainees over the next two years.

“The new CoC (Special Limits) allows seafarers to enjoy the flexibility of serving shorter voyages while addresses the industry needs for more Singaporeans and PRs to join the harbour craft industry, “says Mr Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive of MPA.

The Singapore Maritime Academy will be the inaugural training provider for this programme and the first intake will commence in April 2011.

Working in partnership with e2i, WDA and SSA’s affiliated bunkering companies
MPA in partnership with e2i, WDA and SSA’s affiliated bunkering companies will collectively contribute over $2.3 million in support for the CoC (Special Limits) programme. The funds will support the course fees and training allowances of the candidates.