Training for MPA's trainers

Maritime Academy Singapore was recently engaged by MPA, Academy, the training arm of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), to conduct two runs of the "Train the Trainer" course for MPA's trainers. The course aimed to equip participants with generic skills to conduct training for other MPA officers and also overseas participants. The topics covered during the course included: the principles of learning, lesson planning and preparation, using different instructional methods and training aids, as well as course design and assessment.

Additionally, Mr. Subir Mukerji, a seasoned trainer, conducted the training. Mr. Mukerji is a facilitator for UN IMO Model Course 6.09 and Competency Based Training Approaches in many different countries. He has also worked for 30 years as a principal lecturer at Singapore Maritime Academy.

The first run of "Train the Trainer" was successfully conducted from 5 to 7 March, with positive feedback garnered from the 14 participants. The participants came from several departments in MPA - Training Standards, Flag State, Investigation, Seafarers Management, Marine Services, Hydrographic and Vessel Traffic Management Departments. The participants found the course interesting as it was interactive and allowed for ample opportunities for information sharing and exchange of ideas.

Mr. Andrew Tan, Chief Executive of MPA, presented certificates to the first batch of trainees during a ceremony on 24 Apr 2014. The second run of the training course is scheduled from 18 to 20 Aug 2014.