IMO and Ghana Maritime Authority launch regional seafarer certification training

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) have launched a regional training program in Accra, Ghana, to strengthen maritime safety and certification standards across West and Central Africa.

From August 24 to 28, maritime officials from Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone participated in a workshop based on IMO Model Course 3.12. The program focuses on improving the assessment, examination, and certification of seafarers through modern methods, quality assurance techniques, and the use of simulators.

The initiative aims to address deficiencies identified through the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS), such as inadequate documentation, insufficient oversight of training results, and poor communication of mandatory information to the IMO. The training also incorporates gender-sensitive teaching practices to promote more inclusive maritime education.