The South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) has announced that the International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC) will start a South African Cadet Training Programme in 2023.
Following a consultation process and audit of the country’s maritime capabilities and capacity, a final agreement on the matter has been reached in Manila, the Philippines.
SAIMI says it is envisaged that the recruitment of the first cohort of cadets will start in the second half of 2023, with the first seagoing appointments planned for the beginning of 2024.
The trial group of 50 male and female cadets will join foreign trading vessels in order to complete their onboard seagoing experience.
Cadets who have passed their competency examinations will have an opportunity at seagoing employment with partner shipping companies.
The initiative will be jointly funded by IMEC and the National Skills Fund via SAIMI.
IMEC currently runs cadet and rating training programmes in the Philippines.