MPA signs MOU to build ICS Academy

The memorandum seeks to develop training for shipping professionals.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) to support the building of ICS Academy and develop training and sustainable programmes for shipping professionals.

In a statement, MPA said the MOU was signed by MPA Academy Dean Tan Suan Jow and ICS General Secretary Guy Platten at the opening ceremony of the Maritime Transformation and Innovation Programme (MTIP).

Under the memorandum, MPA and ICS will collaborate and develop suitable distance or online and face-to-face training and professional development programmes for shipping professionals as well as accreditation for ICS Academy courses and certifications for continual professional development. 

For his part, Platten said the establishment of ICS Academy in Singapore will provide best practices and advice on seafarer well-being to shipping professionals both ashore and afloat.

The MPA also announced that it welcomed 20 maritime leaders from 15 nations to the MTIP, which will be held from 4 April to 8 April 2022. This programme, the MPA Academy’s first physical training programme since the pandemic, was organised for maritime or senior port officers overseeing technology, innovation, and change management.

The MTIP seeks to provide a platform and networking opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and practices with industry practitioners and gain insights into effective transformation and change management strategies.