Ghana Maritime Authority Hosts Regional Training to Enhance Seafarer Assessment Standards

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has officially opened a five-day regional training programme designed to bolster the competencies of seafarer examiners, assessors, and instructors. Hosted at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Nungua, the initiative brings together maritime professionals from across West and Central Africa to align their skills with evolving international standards. This collaborative effort underscores the critical role of specialized training in maintaining the safety and efficiency of global maritime trade through rigorous certification processes.

Participants in the workshop represent eight nations, including Ghana, Cabo Verde, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. The curriculum follows the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Model Course 3.12, focusing on the sophisticated methodologies required to evaluate the proficiency of modern seafarers. GMA Deputy Director-General, Mr. Mubarick Masawudu, emphasized that the quality of these assessments is directly linked to the safe handling of vessels and cargo, noting that robust assessment frameworks are essential to prevent maritime accidents and uphold industry integrity.

Beyond technical instruction, the programme addresses emerging global challenges, including environmental sustainability within the maritime sector. Lead Facilitator Mr. Milton Alfredo De Jesus Baron Perico highlighted the necessity for continuous professional development to keep pace with shifting international environmental regulations and technological advancements. Furthermore, this training serves as a strategic preparation for Ghana’s upcoming IMO Member State Audit scheduled for 2027, ensuring the nation and its regional partners remain competitive and compliant within the global maritime economy.