The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will be conducting the first training course under the Singapore-IMO TCTP MOU from 5 to 14 April 1999. 25 participants from 10 countries will be attending the eight-day IMO Model Course 3.12 on Examination and Certification of Seafarers. They include participants from Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Vietnam. It will be held at the Shipping Division of MPA. Officers from the Shipping Division and the National Maritime Academy will conduct the training.

Mr Chen Tze Penn, MPA Director-General, said, "The series of training courses to be conducted by the MPA under the TCTP underscores our close partnership with the International Maritime Organisation in the provision of quality training to enhance maritime safety, and to prevent and control pollution."

Participants who undergo the IMO Model Course 3.12 will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to examine shipmasters, mates and engineer officers for competence. The course covers areas such as international obligations, certification requirements, maintenance of standards. International rules and standards of IMO Conventions, and guidelines on administering examinations leading to the certification of the many categories of mariners will also be taught.

The Singapore-IMO TCTP MOU was established on 1 September 1998. It provides technical assistance to developing countries in areas where Singapore has acquired expertise. Under this MOU, Singapore will work with the IMO to provide technical assistance and sponsor training programmes to developing countries in Asia-Pacific and Africa, to enhance their capability to comply with and implement international rules and standards set by the IMO. The TCTP, which begins in 1999, will run for two years. A series of training programmes will be held in Singapore. In addition, local experts will also be sent to participate in training courses held overseas on behalf of the IMO.

End of Statement.