Simulator instructor training to support seafarer skills in Africa

Co-hosted by the International Maritime Organization and the Technical University of Mombasa (15-19 September), the workshop brought together 32 simulator instructors and assessors, including eight women, drawn from maritime administrations and training institutions in Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa and the United Republic of Tanzania.

Simulator training uses computer-based or full-mission simulators to replicate shipboard equipment, operations and environments for both seafarer training and competency assessments. During the workshop, participants shared their expertise in a series of presentations, discussions and simulator-based practical exercises. The activity aims to enhance implementation of the STCW Convention, including the 2010 Manila Amendments, and in particular, provisions relating to training and assessment using simulators.

The workshop, funded under IMO's Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) was officially opened by opened by Mr. Justus Omae Nyarandi, Director General of the Kenya Maritime Authority. The course was facilitated by consultants from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport in Alexandria, Egypt.