This article is reproduced from Seavoices, a bimonthly publication by SMOU and WMI. The original newsletter may be downloaded from SMOU's website.
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The Tripartite Nautical Training Award (TNTA) graduation and investiture ceremony is a moment of new beginnings not just for the graduating cadets, who will be embarking on their maiden voyage after completing six months of pre-sea classroom training, but also for the new cadets, who will be starting their training to join the maritime industry.
At the latest ceremony, held on 2 October at the Amara Hotel and graced by Guest-of-Honour Pacific International Lines (PIL) Executive Director Teo Choo Wee, the spotlight was on 27 cadets from TNTA Cohorts 13 and 14.
They received their pre-sea graduation certificates and epaulets to the applause of the 160-strong crowd, from amongst family members, distinguished guests from the maritime community, tripartite and shipping representatives and TNTA alumni cadets from cohorts 6 to 12.
Capt Anthony Khoo, Chairman of the TNTA Advisory Committee, observed in his speech: "Each cadet who joins is part of the TNTA family. As family, we look out, work, help and care for each other."
"SMOU, Wavelink Maritime Institute (WMI) and the shipping companies have also been maintaining practices such as setting up mobile chat groups and staying in contact so there are avenues for the cadets to seek advice or assistance," he added.
Capt Khoo also highlighted the gender diversity in the industry and cited various female cadets across the TNTA intakes, including the first female cadet from TNTA Cohort 14 to be employed by Shell. "Nobody can say that females cannot excel in this line just as well as the males," he said.
The alumni's presence instilled a sense of determination in the cadets to achieve their dreams. TNTA alumnus and Class President from Cohort 11 Punithan Manoukaran inspired them further by pointing out three attributes they needed to succeed - humility, a can-do attitude, and a focal point.
He shared: "Be respectful, show respect and you will receive respect. Don't be afraid to volunteer for tasks and get your hands dirty for practical experience. We all need to ask the big Why - why am I sailing? This will be your compass and strength during your lowest moments."
Wavelink Maritime Institute conducts the Tripartite Nautical Training Award (TNTA) and Tripartite Engineering Training Award (TETA) to train Singaporean CoC 3 Deck Officers and CoC 5 Marine Engineer Officers. Graduates of the TNTA and TETA are also eligible to join the SkillsFuture Earn and Learn Programme managed by Singapore Polytechnic.
For more information, please refer to Shipping Circular 20 of 2017
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