A first for maritime training

Graduates mark training milestone for country

LIBERIA: The first cohort of certified Liberian Marine Engineers Officers Class-3 graduated last week at a ceremony held at the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI) in Marshall City.

The 13 graduates were honoured with the presence of top government officials, maritime stakeholders, and international partners at the ceremony as the country celebrated a new chapter in their maritime journey.

The Certificate of Competence (CoC) program, equips graduates with the technical knowledge and certification to assume critical roles aboard ships, such as Chief Engineer and Second Engineer. This initiative marks a shift in the nation's maritime landscape, as the country aims to not only claim a position as a leading flag state but also to contribute to the seafaring pool for the maritime industry.

The Commissioner of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cll Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr, called the occasion transformative. “This moment demonstrates our commitment to making seafaring a viable subsector of Liberia's economy,” he declared. “Today’s graduates are pioneers, paving the way for more Liberians to excel in maritime careers. Liberia is moving beyond being just a flag state—we are becoming a significant labour-supplying state for the global maritime industry.”

He urged the graduates to embody integrity and excellence as they embark on their careers as their success is expected to inspire future cadets and reinforce Liberia’s reputation as a nation of maritime excellence. The Liberia Maritime Training Institute is at the heart of this initiative.

“Our goal is to double the number of cadets within two years. By 2025, we aim to expand our facilities and move towards establishing LMTI as a four-year maritime college.”

Addressing the audience, the Board Chairman of LMTI Abraham Zaidenberg outlined the institution’s ambitious plan for the future. “Our goal is to double the number of cadets within two years. By 2025, we aim to expand our facilities and move towards establishing LMTI as a four-year maritime college,” he revealed.

This long-term vision aligns with Liberia’s push to diversify its economy and enhance human capital, positioning its citizens as key players in the global maritime workforce.

In closing, he acknowledged International stakeholders crucial role in Liberia’s maritime advancements, highlighting d’Amico Shipping Group’s commitment to providing employment opportunities for the new graduates aboard international vessels.

During his remarks, Tal Hendler, General Manager of LMTI lauded the initiative, describing the graduates as “trailblazers ready to lead Liberia into a brighter future on the global maritime stage”.

PHOTO: Liberian Maritime Authority.