Sierra Leone Maritime Administration Concludes First Set of STCW Basic Mandatory Courses

The Sierra Leone Maritime Administration (SLMA), in partnership with the Regional Maritime University (RMU) of Ghana, proudly announces the successful completion of the first set of Standard of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) basic mandatory courses. This significant milestone marks a new chapter in maritime training and safety in Sierra Leone.

In his address, the SLMA Executive Director, Paul Sobba Massaquoi, highlighted the journey leading to this accomplishment. “The International Maritime Organization (IMO) established the STCW Convention to define fundamental standards for international watchkeeping, certification, and training of seafarers. Our administration prioritized domesticating this convention into national law in July 2021,” said Massaquoi.

In 2023, the SLMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RMU, setting the stage for the commencement of five basic mandatory courses in Freetown. The SLMA facilitated air tickets, lodging, per diems, and feeding for tutors from RMU, while RMU provided the learning curriculum, tutors, and certificates for the participants. The collaboration aimed to enhance the training and certification of seafarers in Sierra Leone.

The training sessions, which began on April 2, 2024, attracted 51 participants from various sectors, including shipping companies, mining companies, government agencies, and individuals. The participants were divided into two groups, with 20 trainees in the first week and 31 in the second week. The venues for the training included the Country Lodge Hotel, Rokel Fire Force Training Center, and the SLMA Boardroom.

Among the participants were representatives from:
– Global Mercy Ships: 25 participants
– National Minerals Agency: 9 participants
– Sierra Leone Maritime Administration: 8 participants
– National Shipping Company: 4 participants
– College of Business and Maritime Studies: 5 participants

“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to promoting seafaring among the youth of Sierra Leone and enhancing maritime safety standards,” Massaquoi added.

The certification ceremony was held to honour the hard work and dedication of our first set of STCW trainees with the issuance of their certificates. This achievement underscores our relentless efforts to ensure that Sierra Leone adheres to international maritime standards.