Manaco Marine-Southern Maritime Training Institute to empower future Lankan seafarers

From left: Manaco Marine Director/General Manager Capt. Roshan Perera, Manaco Marine Chief Executive Officer Capt. Nalin Peiris, Southern Maritime Training Institute Chief Executive Officer Capt. Kolitha Gunawardane and Southern Maritime Training Institute Director Capt. Sanjeewa Usgoda Arachchi

Manaco Marine, a prominent maritime recruitment and port agency services provider in Sri Lanka, has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Southern Maritime Training Institute (SMTI), Galle. 

This landmark agreement solidifies the commitment to employ cadets from SMTI and highlights Manaco Marine’s dedication to selecting and training the most suitable candidates who will excel as officers on modern ships on which emission abatement technologies are being used.

As per the MoU, Manaco Marine will serve as one of the training partners for SMTI, providing placements and comprehensive training for the institute. Manaco Marine’s unique approach involves meticulous interviews with candidates from various maritime institutes to ensure that only the most talented individuals are chosen, enabling them to become competent cadets capable of thriving in the global maritime industry.

Being aware of SMTI’s dedication and potential to cultivate competitive and skilled seafarers, Manaco Marine is delighted to establish this collaborative relationship. As stated by Manaco Marine Chief Executive Officer Capt. Nalin Pieris, “We are pleased to embark on this partnership with them and unite in our goal to provide exceptional opportunities and develop top-tier maritime professionals.”

The alliance between Manaco Marine and SMTI will primarily focus on training and employment of cadets up to their graduation. They will be placed on board ships operated by Manaco Marine’s principals, after a very stringent selection and engagement process. Throughout their training, both Manaco Marine and SMTI will closely monitor their progress to ensure that the highest standards of education and skill development are achieved. Navigation officer cadets will embark on a seven-month residential programme at SMTI, where they will be taught essential skills to take up their first phase of onboard training. 

Thereafter, they will be offered ship placement by Monaco Marine for a period of 12-month on board merchant vessels. Upon completing the on-board training, the cadets will return to SMTI for the final phase of shore-based training, which is for six months, before appearing for their first certificate of competency examination conducted by the Merchant Shipping Secretariat Ministry. On successful completion of the examination, these cadets will qualify to join ships as watch keeping officers.
Commenting on the significance of signing the MoU during a time of rapid transformation in the maritime industry, Capt. Pieris remarked, “This partnership with SMTI aligns with our commitment to staying at the forefront of modern seafaring. By providing comprehensive training and employment opportunities, we aim to nurture a new generation of skilled seafarers who will thrive in the evolving maritime landscape.”

SMTI Chief Executive Officer Capt. Kolitha Gunawardane expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to join hands with Manaco Marine in shaping the future of maritime training and education. Through this MoU, we will empower our cadets to excel in their careers, contributing to the growth and success of the global maritime industry.”