In move to bolster maritime training in the UK, Trinity House has recently announced its collaboration with the Agri-Foods and Biosciences Institute (AFBI). This landmark partnership aims to enhance the learning opportunities for Merchant Navy cadets, paving the way for a bright and prosperous future in the maritime industry.
On 13 September 2023, it was revealed that the two renowned institutions have joined forces to foster the development of new Deck Cadet and Engineer Cadet berths. This initiative will predominantly benefit young individuals keen on forging a career in the Merchant Navy, offering them a unique platform to gain firsthand experience and nurture their maritime skills.
Under the aegis of the Merchant Navy Scholarship Scheme orchestrated by Trinity House, the AFBI will facilitate training aboard their research vessel, the MV Corystes. The cadets will undergo an enriching programme, typically spanning six to eight weeks, which will be managed by Just Be Maritime.
Philip Jeffers, the Research Vessel and Marine Systems Manager at AFBI, expressed the institute’s eagerness in partnering with Trinity House. Highlighting AFBI’s pivotal role in advancing scientific expertise within Northern Ireland, he noted that this initiative serves as an extension of their efforts to foster knowledge and competence development on a broader scale, impacting not just Northern Ireland but the wider UK region as well.
Adding to the enthusiasm, Captain Nigel Hope, Director of Maritime Training at Trinity House, lauded this partnership as a significant expansion of their existing Merchant Navy Scholarship Scheme. He further acknowledged the excellent training berths available on the MV Corystes, which promise to equip Trinity House Deck and Engineer cadets with vital experience and knowledge, propelling them towards their professional qualifications.
In a significant acknowledgment, Captain Hope extended special congratulations to Engineer Officer cadet Zaidan, who has the distinction of being the first cadet to join the MV Corystes. As this promising journey unfolds, the maritime community eagerly awaits to hear more about the enriching experiences this new venture promises to offer.
The ambitious programme not only promises to enrich the learning trajectory for cadets but also stands testament to Trinity House’s relentless efforts in safeguarding the shipping and seafaring community. This charity, with a rich legacy, continues to contribute significantly towards the education, support, and welfare of the maritime community, delivering reliable and efficient aids to navigation services.
To explore further details about this promising Merchant Navy Scholarship Scheme, maritime enthusiasts and aspiring cadets can the Trinity House website.
As we witness this promising alliance take shape, it indeed marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s maritime training landscape, ushering a new era of opportunities and growth for the upcoming generation of maritime professionals.
