POLAR NAVIGATION TRAINING: A FIRST FOR AFRICA!

As the leading employer of South African seafarers, AMSOL focuses on training and development to ensure a healthy talent pipeline for the maritime industry. With many of its seafarers serving on the South African Government’s Antarctic Supply Vessel, ‘SA Agulhas II,’ AMSOL seized the opportunity to offer Navigation Officers certification in Basic and Advanced Polar Code.

The ‘SA Agulhas II’ conducts annual Antarctic supply and research operations, traveling to Gough and Marion Islands as well as to the ice shelf and SANAE base.

AMSOL’s Fleet Management Executive, Captain Musa Mbakaza, explained: “The courses aim to provide awareness of hazards present in polar waters to improve seafarers’ ability to contribute to the ship’s safe operations in an extremely cold climate. Understanding legislative requirements in polar waters, ship handling in ice-covered seas, safe working practices at freezing temperatures, and pollution prevention requirements specific to those waters are the main subjects of the courses. These outcomes are supported by simulator training.”

Virtual Marine’s global leadership in Polar Code training courses for Navigation Officers stems from its specialised curriculum, advanced simulation technology, experienced instructors, and commitment to regulatory compliance.

Course leader Captain Anthony Patterson added: “By equipping seafarers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate safely in polar waters, Virtual Marine helps enhance the safety and efficiency of maritime operations in these challenging environments,” an objective shared by AMSOL and DFFE.

Eight AMSOL Masters and Officers have undergone the initial Basic training course held onboard the ‘SA Agulhas II’ in Cape Town, after which four candidates completed the Advanced programme. “We thank role players in the industry who have worked consistently to ensure that we achieved this training milestone in South Africa – enhancing the skills and competence of our Masters and Officers,” noted Captain Mbakaza.

AMSOL provides vessel management services to the DFFE, ensuring the safe and effective manning, maintenance, and management of the ‘SA Agulhas II’ as well as the research vessel ‘Algoa,’ ensuring the safety of operations at sea during these scientific voyages.