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MPA and the Young SMOU committee will ensure cadets receive practical advice, career insights and the right support during their training period and early career.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has partnered with Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i), and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) to launch the enhanced Tripartite Maritime Training Award (TMTA).
Supported by the Singapore Shipping Association, the enhanced TMTA will not only see its training duration shortened from 31 months to 22 months but also introduce a structured mentorship programme to support cadets transitioning to a seafaring career.
Additionally, experienced seafarers will provide personalised guidance to help cadets navigate classroom learning and real-world challenges. MPA and the Young SMOU committee will facilitate the above arrangements to ensure cadets will receive practical advice, career insights and the right support during their training period and early career. Monthly training allowance will also increase from S$1,200 to S$2,200 as an effort to provide better financial support.
TMTA was first established by SMOU in 2009, providing support to mid-career individuals to attain skills and certifications required to serve as 3rd Officers (junior sea-going deck officers) and 5th Engineers (junior sea-going engineer officers). High standards of training are expected to remain through this enhancement process while the curriculum streamlines to optimise onboard training, accelerating skills development.
Tan Kok Yam, Chief Executive, SSG, said that aspiring seafarers can expect an accelerated and well-supported career pathway in the industry through the streamlined curriculum and will work closely with MPA and other partners to build talent pipeline.
Meanwhile, Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, added that this enhanced TMTA will open up many pathways for cadets transitioning to a maritime career at sea as their trade is integral to the growth of the economy.
To pledge their commitment to this development, a Memorandum of Understanding for the TMTA enhancement will be signed on Tuesday (25 March) between SMOU, e2i and SSG. To further show their support, SMOU, government agencies and industry will commit S$8.5mn over the next three years.
Mary Liew, General Secretary, SMOU, noted that through the close collaboration, the tripartite partners will continue to strengthen the maritime workforce and ensure seafaring remains an attractive career choice.
Finally, Caryn Lim, Chief Executive Officer, e2i, expressed pride at e2i's ability to support this enhanced initiative to build a resilient and skilled local maritime workforce.
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