The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) in collaboration with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is organizing a five-day workshop aimed at building the capacity of seafarer examiners. This initiative aligns with emerging developments in the maritime sector. The workshop, which commenced on Monday, is being held at the Bernhard Schulte Ship Management (BSM) Centre, Regional Maritime University (RMU). It is the second phase of the Assessment, Examination and Certification of Seafarers.
Representing the Director-General of GMA, Director of the Maritime Services Division, Janet Houghman Addy, highlighted that the train-the-trainer programme is designed to develop the capacity of assessors and trainers. This will enable them to effectively carry out their responsibilities in line with international standards. The programme seeks to address the evolving needs of the maritime sector.
Emerging developments in the maritime sector, including maritime decarbonisation, Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), and digitalisation, are transforming the skills required of seafarers. As a result, training, examination, and assessment practices need to evolve in line with these developments. Ms. Addy emphasized the importance of examiners and assessors exercising sound and impartial professional judgement.
Ms. Addy also reminded examiners and assessors of their direct responsibility for maritime safety. She urged them to exercise their professional judgement supported by clear and objective evidence. This is crucial in ensuring the safety of maritime operations.
The Vice Chancellor of RMU, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jnr., commended the GMA for their continued cooperation and support to the University and the maritime industry in Ghana. He expressed appreciation to the management of BSM for its commitment to the Memorandum of Understanding with RMU.
Dr. Brooks emphasized the importance of collaboration among maritime stakeholders. He noted that sustained cooperation is essential to strengthening maritime training and developing a common approach to training across Ghana and the sub-region. This collaboration will contribute to advancing maritime activities in Ghana and the sub-region.
The workshop brings together various stakeholders in the maritime industry to discuss and address key issues. It provides a platform for examiners and assessors to enhance their skills and knowledge. The GMA and IMO are working together to ensure that seafarers are trained and assessed in line with international standards.
Key points
- The workshop aims to build the capacity of seafarer examiners in line with emerging developments in the maritime sector.
- The programme seeks to develop the capacity of assessors and trainers to effectively carry out their responsibilities.
- The collaboration between GMA, IMO, and RMU is crucial to strengthening maritime training in Ghana and the sub-region.
