February 24 marked a significant milestone in the maritime industry as the first batch of trainees for the Marine Fitters and Pump Men Training Program commenced their journey at the NUSI Offshore Training Institute, located at Panvel, north of Mumbai.
This initiative, a result of collaboration between Foreign Owners Representatives and Ship Managers Association (FOSMA) and the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) ITF Trust for Indian Seafarers, aims to address the acute shortage of skilled personnel in these crucial maritime roles.
The inauguration program, attended by key industry stakeholders, celebrated the commencement of this structured training initiative, where representatives from FOSMA, NUSI ITF Trust, NUSI Maritime Academy, NUSI Offshore Training Institute, and the Academic Partners to NUSI Offshore Training Institute, the ISF Group, were present to extend their support.
Capt Rajesh Tandon, CEO, FOSMA, stated, “This program is a significant step toward addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the maritime industry.
“By leveraging the expertise of NUSI’s training verticals—NMA in Goa and NOTI in Panvel—we are ensuring that Trainee GP Ratings receive a well-rounded education, combining theoretical knowledge, practical onboard training, and advanced skill development, to fast track their careers into the leading rating / Petty Officer category.
“With the support assured by the Director General of Shipping and active participation from our member shipping lines, this initiative will provide a transparent, merit-based training and certification process.”
He added, “Our goal is to empower the next generation of seafarers with industry-relevant skills, strengthening their employability and contributing to the long-term growth of the maritime workforce.
“This is a transformative leap forward for the industry, and we are committed to making it a success.”
The training program has been designed to provide a structured pathway for selected candidates from the GP Ratings Training Program at NUSI Maritime Academy, Goa. A total of 36 candidates have been selected for this initiative, and they will undergo a back-to-back training program, with 18 candidates in each batch.
The initiative has garnered strong support from the Director General of Shipping, who has committed to issuing necessary circulars to formalize the program. This will enable successful candidates to receive appropriate endorsements upon completion of their training, further enhancing their career prospects.
With this landmark initiative, FOSMA, the NUSI ITF Trust for Indian Seafarers, and key industry stakeholders have taken a definitive step in bridging a major skills gap in the maritime sector, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified professionals to meet the industry’s evolving demands.
Marex Media