Refreshed training programme aims to groom 120 aspiring seafarers over five years

Aspiring Singaporean seafarers can now look forward to a refreshed programme to help them fulfil their career dreams.

The Tripartite Maritime Training Awards (TMTA) (Deck/Engine) programme was officially relaunched on 14 February 2024 at the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union’s (SMOU) Lunar New Year event.

Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat launched the programme at the event. NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng attended as a special guest.

Formerly known as the as the Tripartite Nautical Training Award and Tripartite Engineering Training Award programme, the TMTA (Deck/Engine) programme aims to groom 120 deck and engine officers to strengthen the maritime industry's Singapore Core of talent.

The programme is developed by SMOU, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), and NTUC’s e2i (Employment and Employability Institute), and supported by the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA).

“This collaborative effort underscores our shared vision for a robust and thriving maritime sector in Singapore, powered by a skilled and dedicated workforce.

“The TMTA (Deck/Engine) programme provides a unique platform for individuals to launch fulfilling careers at sea and contribute to our nation’s maritime legacy,” said SMOU General Secretary Mary Liew.

The TMTA programme

Since it was set up in 2009, the TMTA (Deck/Engine) programme has trained more than 400 cadets, resulting in over 130 Certificate of Competency (COC) holders.

The refreshed programme targets working adults seeking to transition into the maritime sector and fresh graduates wishing to embark on maritime careers.

TMTA (Deck/Engine) graduates can access opportunities at sea and ashore, forming the Singapore Core of seafarers onboard international vessels. This will bolster the country’s efforts in maintaining its position as the leading international maritime hub and global maritime centre.

Wavelink Maritime Institute, SMOU’s training arm, will train the cadets. The institute has a proven track record of providing high-quality maritime education and training to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen careers.

Individuals keen on joining the programme can look out for the next intake in September 2024.

SMOU’s commitment to Singapore’s maritime future

SMOU remains deeply committed to fortifying the Singapore Core, with over $10 million invested with stakeholders into TMTA (Deck/Engine) to bolster the country’s maritime industry’s future.

The union will further strengthen the programme by partnering with key stakeholders to expand financial support and practical training opportunities. It will also ensure the course remains relevant and effective to the evolving needs of the industry.

With SMOU’s continued focus on tripartism, seafarers enjoy better wages, benefits, and career development opportunities; employers gain from a highly skilled and motivated workforce; and the government can leverage the collective expertise of all parties to shape sound maritime policies.

Individuals interested in joining the TMTA (Deck/Engine) programme can visit wavelinklms.com.sg for more information.