Mercantile Seaman Training Institute – Training for life at sea
View(s):Mercantile Seaman Training Institute is an institute dedicated towards providing students with learning opportunities that will enable them to succeed in a unique and competitive career as a seafarer. In order for the youth of Sri Lanka to gain a better understanding of seafaring as a profession, the following are excerpts of an Education Times interview of a MSTI graduate, who is now a cadet officer.
What motivated you to choose seafaring as a professional career path?
It is not easy to become a naval officer. I chose this path because I wanted a unique career opportunity that will help me to travel the world and see different places. I received admission in to the university system, yet I gave up that opportunity and chose this path because I find it very interesting and it is an honourable job.
How did the training and teaching at MSTI help you to achieve your goals?
MSTI gave us the theoretical as well as practical knowledge that is essential when starting an educational programme. We were also educated as to how we should behave on board a vessel and how we should adjust to different situations on board. We were also a part of leadership training programs, which was hosted for 7days in the Sinharaja rainforest. The training taught us to think independently and make accurate decisions, which is an essential skill when we are out at sea. We also learnt that we are representatives of our profession, so people’s views will depend a lot on how we behave; and we were trained in this regards as well. Working together with individuals of other nationalities and maintaining the respect and good name of our shipping line was another set of values that we were taught. I must say the staff and lecturers of MSTI worked with immense dedication to ensure we picked these vital lessons. Furthermore, MSTI trained us to become lifelong learners. They did not just teach us but inspired and motivated us. This was the major reason why I chose MSTI for my maritime studies.
What were the issues you faced during your time of study and how did you address them?
Honestly, I did not face any such problems. But whenever we needed advice and guidance the lecture panel and management of MSTI were very supportive.
What qualities should a person posses if they are to be a successful naval officer?
Quite simply, they should have good intentions, a good character, the willingness to learn and work, and they should be able to work in a team and bear responsibility for a team as well. These are essential qualities of a good naval officer.
What does the future look like for those engaged in maritime studies?
Due to certain faults and failures there is a decrease of job opportunities in the European countries, but people who are well trained and knowledgeable will always have good chances.
Meanwhile, we also took the time to speak to Paul of F.H. Bertling
What are your thoughts on seafaring as a profession and what are the positive aspects of it?
A life at sea is like no other. It opens your horizons to the wide world around you and you can live the experience actively rather than just seeing it on the television. You learn the value of self reliance in your personal as well as professional life, whilst at the same time it teaches you to work in a team with your ship mates.
What is your opinion of Sri Lankan cadets and Junior officers?
We have had Sri Lankan crew on board our vessels for about two years now and after the initial acclimatisation phase, they have proved their aptitude, professional skills, and character. The high maintenance standards on board our vessels have been maintained and in fact they have been improved.
What are the career prospects for seafarers in the current shipping environment?
The present downturn in shipping and the laying up of some vessels has shown a drop in the employment opportunities in certain countries, especially Europe. But, I must say, that good qualified seafarers are, and will always be, sought after. Particularly with companies who require well trained, experienced and capable, professional seafarers – F.H. Bertling is such a company.
What are the essential qualities you look for in a good seafarer?
Good character, aptitude, willingness to learn and work in a team and individually and, of course, dedication.
Joanne Kotelawala.
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