The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has kicked-off the phase 2 of the Sea Time cadet Training programme for 40 cadets. The kick-off ceremony was held recently at the NCDMB Hall at Charkins Maritime and Offshore Services Limited, Ozuoba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
This is coming weeks after the Board conducted aptitude tests and interviews for 60 prospective candidates, of which 40 cadets (38 males and 2 females) were adjudged to be successful.
All the candidates were pooled originally from the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGICJQS) for the cadet training programme.
The aim of the cadet training is to address the deficit of trained cadets in the maritime and oil and gas industries and reduce the dependence of foreign personnel in the marine operations.
Under the program, the cadets will be trained by Bernard Schulte Group for 12 months on board a foreign vessel and will be international certified with the Certificate of Competence (COC) recognized by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Wabote explained that the cadets training is a Human Capacity Building Initiative of the Board, geared towards increasing the participation of Nigerians in the oil and gas industry, as shipping is a very important aspect in the sector.
According to him, over 10,000 vessels berth at the Nigerian Port each year, yet there was a deficit of qualified Nigerians to man those vessels.
He reiterated that the Board implemented the 60-20-20 capacity building model to ensure that trainees get trained and employable in the industry after their exercise, stating that NCDMB and other servicing companies have complied with the model.
The Executive Secretary who was represented by the General Manager, Capacity Building Division, Dr. Ama Ikuru stated that phase 1 of the cadets training programme was a success and that cadets were appreciative of the opportunity that extended to them.
He advised the cadets to be obedient, hardworking and dedicated to their programme and assured that the Board will continue to support them to succeed.
Also speaking at the kick-off, the Chief Executive Officer, Charkins Maritime and Offshore Safety Centre, Sir Charles Kimikanwo Wami commended the Board for its effective implementation of the Nigerian Content Act and drive to ensure compliance.
He appreciated the Board for its collaboration, which is driven by the vision to empower the youths by providing job opportunities. He advised the cadets to make good use of the opportunity and become good ambassadors to their communities and the nation.
