The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), in partnership with the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i), SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), and supported by the Singapore Shipping Association, has launched the enhanced Tripartite Maritime Training Award (TMTA).
First established in 2009 by SMOU, the TMTA supports mid-career individuals to acquire the skills and certifications needed to serve as third officers and fifth engineers.
Under the enhanced TMTA, the training duration will be reduced from 31 months to 22 months. High training standards will be maintained through a more streamlined curriculum that strengthens core maritime competencies, incorporates greater use of advanced ship simulators for both navigational and engineering training, and optimizes onboard training to accelerate skills development.
To provide better financial support during the training phase, monthly training allowances will be increased from S$1,200 to S$2,200, with co-funding by MPA, e2i, and SMOU.
As part of the enhanced TMTA, a structured mentorship program will be introduced to support cadets in their transition to a seafaring career.
Experienced seafarers will provide personalized guidance to help cadets navigate both classroom learning and real-world challenges at sea. MPA and the Young SMOU committee will facilitate these mentorship arrangements, ensuring that cadets receive practical advice, career insights, and support throughout their training and into their early career.
As part of the collaboration, government agencies, SMOU, and industry will commit S$8.5 million over the next three years to support the TMTA’s enhanced training program.
A Memorandum of Understanding to enhance the TMTA will be signed on March 25 with SMOU, e2i, and SSG.
Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said: “A career in seafaring is meaningful and rewarding. Seafarers enable seaborne trade which is integral to the growth of economies. We are committed to working with our partners to grow a strong local seafaring workforce.
“The enhanced Tripartite Maritime Training Award provides mid-career individuals with the skills and financial support to make a successful transition into a rewarding maritime career at sea, which will thereafter also open many pathways to careers ashore.”
Photo credit: iStock/ Perawit Boonchu
