There has been a growing interest among local seafarers to join overseas vessels.

This is because of Fiji’s capability to train local seafarers to meet international standards.

Lautoka based international manning partner Alpha Pacific Navigation Limited (APNL), plans to introduce more training programmes to upskill local seafarers.

Recruitment
General manager Saoloto Sosene said APNL has over the years received a good number of applications wanting to join overseas vessels.

Mr Sosene said so far 110 Fijians have been recruited to overseas commercial vessels through APNL.

“When there is an opening from the overseas vessel then we start with the recruitment which are open ended. Once the student has completed its training at the Fiji Maritime Academy or any other training institution, only then they can apply.

Mr Sosene said the duration of their contracts is like eight months for the rating while four to six months for the officers.

“There are plans in place for Class three, one and Class two masters to train the officers to a higher level which were not available previously.

He added with the pandemic affecting business, some commercial vessel needed more crew to man the vessel.

Cadet Programme
He said since APNL started in 2015, a cadet programme was introduced which saw young Fijian boys and girls undergo training.

“Maritime sector can grow because Fiji has the potential to make it a thriving industry for employment. We have a very good population of educated labor force age.

“We are not only talking about at the officer level but also for ratings such as the deckhand, engine room hand, catering department where you have a cook and a steward on board,” said Mr Sosene.

Mr Sosene said real potential is yet to be tapped into in Fiji as there are less than 500 seafarers on the international market.

Feedback: laiseana.nasiga@fijisun.com.fj