Cadet training to receive a boost in 2023

IMEC training programme announcement

SOUTH AFRICA: South Africa will officially commence with the intake of the first cohort of cadets for the International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC) South African Cadet Training Programme in September this year.

This follows the attendance of a South African delegation at the Crew Connect Global Conference in Manila last year, where representatives from the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI), the South African Maritime Training Academy (SAMTRA) and the National Skills Fund (NSF) met with the IMEC to discuss initiating the programme.

After the recruitment of cadets in September 2023, it is envisaged that the first seagoing appointments will be made in January 2024. The pilot group of 50 male and female cadets will join foreign going trading vessels to complete their onboard seagoing experience with an IMEC Member. Cadets who have passed their competency examinations and performed satisfactorily will have access to gainful on-board employment opportunities as “Officer of the Watch”.

IMEC currently operates highly successful Cadet and Rating Training programs in the Philippines and this partnership bodes well for South African Seafarers, especially after the recent SAMSA announcement that the South African IMO White List accreditation status has been maintained.

CAPTION: Photo - Left to Right: Pieter Coetzer (SAMTRA), Francesco Gargiulo (IMEC CEO), Mvuyisi Dlakavu (SAIMI), Azwimbavhi Nelwamondo (SAMSA), Adam Lewis (IMEC), Chloe Esdaile (IMEC), Yvette de Klerk, Tshepo Mokoena (NSF).