MPA Singapore Underscores Maritime Workforce Development

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has put the talent development high on the agenda at Singapore Maritime Week 2018.

The MPA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), Singapore Maritime Employers Federation (SMEF), Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) and Singapore Organisation of Seamen (SOS) aimed at developing human capital for the seafaring sector.

The collaboration will focus on identifying new competencies and skills required to operate the next generation of ships, enhancing the current training syllabus and developing Singapore as a maritime training hub.

“The face of ports, shipping and the maritime industry is changing with the advent of automation, new technologies and business models. This MOU reflects a strong commitment by the government, industry and unions working together to identify the skill gaps, and to train and upskill the maritime workforce for the future economy,” Andrew Tan, Chief Executive, MPA, said.

A new Specialist Diploma course in Maritime Superintendency was launched at the forum. The course, which will begin its first intake in October 2018, was developed by a working group comprising representatives from DNV GL, MPA, Marine Engineers, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF), Singapore Polytechnic, SSA and Society of Naval Architect.

The course provides participants with the relevant knowledge and technical skills to plan and coordinate operations from shore. It will facilitate the sea-to-shore transition for experienced seafarers and career conversion for mid-careerists from relevant fields such as mechanical engineering. Graduates will be awarded a nationally-recognized Specialist Diploma by Singapore Polytechnic, MPA Singapore said.

“Graduates today expect well-structured career progression pathways and wage growth. They look forward to working in an environment which is flexible and where they have control over their own development. Companies that can successfully navigate these changes and learn how to tap into the potential of these different workforce segments will stand a better chance of attracting the best talents,” Tan added.

The 13th edition of the Singapore Maritime Week (SMW), themed “Positioning for Future Growth – Driving Connectivity, Innovation and Talent”, was officially opened on April 21 and will close on April 29. A highlight at the SMW 2018 exhibition is The Next Generation Port in the Making, an exclusive feature on the upcoming Tuas Port.

Source: worldmaritimenews