KURLA, JULY 14, 2011: “The Skills Enhancement Programme for Deck and Engine Ratings of FOSMA” was inaugurated on Monday July 4, 2011 at Don Bosco Maritime Academy, Kurla.
FOSMA a group of thirty two Foreign Shipping companies who operate throughout India is constantly in need of skill enhancement for its seafarers. The training program was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Shanti Patel President of NUSI – National Union of Seafarers of India. The Guest of Honour was Mr. Abdul Gani Serang, Secretary and Treasurer (NUSI). DBMA was privileged to have several luminaries from Shipping Companies, representatives of DG Shipping, Representative of MASSA (another organization of Foreign Ship Owners in India), Members of Maritime Press and higher echelons of Management Staff of the Shipping companies at this function.
While the Chief Guest, the Guest of Honour, and the present President of FOSMA spoke at length about the financial contribution of the companies as well as an active intervention in the training programme, the need for continuous skills improvement that is the survival of the Indian Seafarer on the Global scenario was emphasized. The quality and diversity of training offered at DBMA is outstanding in several areas and this partnership would be a lasting one.
The Rector, Fr. Adolph Furtado thanked FOSMA for partnering in this program. He stated that investing well in the aspiring Indian Seafarer would enable the shipping companies greater output. He also reminded the audience that the Community of Kurla prays daily for all who sail the seven seas. Mr. G.A. Soman the Principal thanked the dignitaries and the hundred and twenty guests present. A Brochure on this joint initiative was released by Dr. Shanti Patel.
As permission to restart the Alternate Training Scheme for Marine Engineers has recently been granted by DG Shipping, DBMA has its hands full with these two courses running simultaneously. It’s 'Smooth Sailing' at DBMA.