The construction of the new maritime training facility got underway two weeks ago next to the main office of the Marshall Islands Shipping Corporation.
Raffael Held, who is with the German-funded bilateral program Low Carbon Sea Transport, said “the start has been eagerly awaited by all stakeholders, since all procurement-related challenges have been resolved and Joemar Development is moving ahead with the construction near Uliga Dock.”
Joemar is owned by local construction contractor Scott Howe.
Raffael added that it’s expected that the two-level building, which will have a total interior area of 2,600 square feet, will be completed by the end of this year.
The building will contain areas for providing training in engine mechanics and deck work for Marshallese seafarers. There will also be office space for members of the Shipping Corporation and the GIZ-supported Low Carbon Sea Transport team.
The entire project is being jointly supported by the Ministry of Transportation, Communication and Information Technology, the National Training Council, the College of the Marshall Islands as well as other national entities.
As training at the new facility begins, the German-funded sailing cargo and training vessel that will be built in Germany will be wending its way to the Marshall Islands and is due to arrive in April, 2023.
When in Majuro the vessel will be tied up at Uliga Dock and will have accommodation available for trainees. It will do regular trips between the atolls, giving the trainees practical hands-on sailing experience.