Transnet National Ports Authority has completed the construction of its Maritime Training Centre at the Port of Cape Town.

The centre, which will run its first courses in September 2018, will offer marine skills development programmes and apprenticeships to youth from previously disadvantaged communities and employees within Transnet.

The project forms part of TNPA’s role as a lead implementer of Government’s Operation Phakisa programme which aims to unlock the economic potential of the country’s Oceans Economy.

Ensuring the sustainability of ports

Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana, Cape Town Port Manager, says as an agency of the state TNPA has a responsibility to contribute positively to the economy of the country by providing proper skills development programmes, training artisans and developing engineers to ensure the sustainability of our ports and to stimulate growth of the maritime economy.

“These skills will ensure that young people can participate meaningfully in the economic development of the country.”

Marine courses on offer at the new centre will include the accredited Dock Master Training Programme, Ship and Boat Building courses, a Ship Maintenance programme and internationally accredited Lighthouse and Navigational Systems programmes.

Leveraging off existing relationships

The Maritime Training Centre will leverage off existing partnerships with institutions such as the Transnet Maritime School of Excellence (MSoE), False Bay College, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and Northlink College.

“Through the Maritime Training Centre, we aspire to develop the skills of the South African workforce, increase the levels of investment in education and training and use the workplace as an active learning environment,” says Dweba-Kwetana.