Robben Island Museum becomes fertile training ground for the maritime industry

Cape Town: In commemoration of Transport Month, the Robben Island Museum (RIM) and the Transport Education Training Authority (Teta) are celebrating a partnership in the form of a training program, which will see 10 young cadets qualify for positions of Master: Port Operations and Chief Engineer: Port Operations.

Robben Island Museum spokesperson Morongoa Ramaboa said an intermodal transport network is essential for South Africa’s economy, especially through the country’s eight commercial seaports along its 2,954 km of ribs.

“The marine industry is a niche industry, and RIM’s ferry operations department faces challenges in finding, recruiting and retaining qualified professionals to meet our business needs. It is through this challenge that a partnership has ensued between RIM and Teta to strengthen the maritime industry, ”said Ramaboa.

Unit director Deck Prince Williams said the opportunity would bridge the gap in on-board practical training and address the shortage of qualified officers in port operations.

“I initiated this idea as a way to give back to the maritime community. The idea is to train and develop young South Africans in the maritime industry, especially in the area of ​​port operations / boundaries, and to improve our maritime industry by applying the necessary knowledge and skills.

“The ultimate goal is to provide young South Africans in the maritime industry with on-the-job experience and training to qualify them as navigation and engineering officers,” said Williams.

Engineering student Lelethu Nduku said, “Being a part of the RIM Cadet Program has reassured me of the endless possibilities and opportunities of this career path. I now have a broader view of the contributions I can and will make in this industry. I am very grateful for this opportunity.

Engineering student Leonard Metcalfe said he was grateful for the opportunity to gain experience.

“RIM gave me the opportunity to work and gain experience on ferries and a supply boat. I feel more confident in my qualification as a chief engineer because of the knowledge passed on, the experience gained and the training opportunities offered. I feel more confident in my future career as a Chief Engineer, ”said Metcalfe.

Argus weekend