Marine Institute seeking to widen its training portfolio

DPI, GUYANA, Tuesday, August 21, 2018

In an effort to adequately train mariners to become industry ready, MatPal Marine Institute (MPMI) is widening its training portfolio to cater to the requirements of the upcoming oil and gas industry in Guyana.

Administrator of MPMI, Colleen Abrams, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that there are a few mandatory courses that need to be included in the agency’s portfolio similar to the courses offered in Trinidad. Among these are the Tropical Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (T-BOSIET) as well as other security and safety programmes which are of the utmost importance in the oil sector.

According to Abrams, once the mariners undergo the training they will be able to gain employment in the oil and gas industry. The administration said as soon as the necessary infrastructure and arrangement are in the place the courses will be implemented.

She highlighted that a series of meetings will be held at the end of August 21, 2018. “…We believe that partnering and synergy (collaboration) is what will help us to integrate and adequately meet the needs of that emerging industry.” Abrams said the aim of these discussions is to “secure partnerships that will assist in building the local content by offering relevant training programmes.”

From its inception in 1999 to present, the MatPal Marine Institute has successfully trained numerous persons within the maritime industry of Guyana and around the Caribbean, at increasing their skills to satisfy the needs of the shipping industry.  On average, in excess of one hundred (100) participants spanning both the deck and engine room departments are certified every year.

Neola Damon

Image Jules Gibson