A week-long Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) training program was carried out recently in the East New Britain (ENB) Province by the National Fisheries College.
A total of 26 seafarers successfully completed the SOLAS training program that was delivered in partnership with the ENB Provincial Administration, through the Provincial Fisheries Division under the ENB Provincial Government and National Fisheries Authority MOA for Fisheries Development and Management in the Province.
The SOLAS training program covered essential skills and knowledge to ensure the safety and well-being of crew members and passengers aboard ships, encompassing a wide range of critical topics, including personal safety techniques, fire prevention and firefighting and survival at sea, first aid, and maritime security.
The 26 cohorts of the SOLAS training Program were made up of individuals, representing diverse backgrounds and aspirations within the maritime industry.
Some were career seafarers while others were aspiring seafarers, seeking to embark on maritime careers, but all of these individuals shared a common commitment to maritime safety.
Fisheries Chairman in the ENB Provincial Assembly, Karl Baru said the successful completion of the SOLAS training demonstrated the competence and dedication of the trainees and highlights the commitment of relevant stakeholders to deliver comprehensive and high quality education and training programs.
Upon completing the week long training program, each trainee was presented with a certificate in recognition of their achievement and commitment to maintaining maritime safety standards.
Mr. Baru said under the leadership of Governor Michael Marum, the responsible government and the provincial administration, through the fisheries sector, will continue to co-fund with NFC/NFA and deliver fisheries training programs in the province.
These capacity building programs will focus on small fishing operations, post-harvest operations, commercial fishing operations, fisheries business and fish farming. The aim is to equip farmers, fishers and fisheries officers with the necessary skills and competencies.
The ENB Provincial Government and administration extended their gratitude to Mr. Ovia Tarube and the National Fisheries College for delivering the SOLAS training in the Province.