SAMSA Annual Report 2015 - 2016

Programme Eight | Seafare Development and Welfare Programme
THE SAMSA VOYAGE
Programme Eight | Seafarer Development and Welfare Programme
CHAPTER 03
PROGRAMME EIGHT
SEAFARER DEVELOPMENT AND WELFARE PROGRAMME
SAMSA conducted an Independent Evaluation in accordance with the STCW Convention 1978, as amended, in order to establish by
applying state of the art analytical and audit methods, whether the Republic of South Africa through its legislation and through SAMSA
gives effect to all requirements of STCW 78, as amended.
The evaluation reflected that SAMSA, for training and certification of seafarers, which is based on:
“Prescribing through syllabi the competencies to be achieved by candidates for all programmes and courses, accrediting training
institutions with their training programmes and courses, moderating the exam papers prior to use in the exam, moderating of the
completed examination papers and carrying out oral examinations for all future CoC holders,” is deemed by the independent
evaluators to ensure a constantly high level of quality in the training and examinations and a sound basis for the issuance of Certificates
of Competency and Certificates of Proficiency.
New Certificates for Seafarers in compliance with the STCW Convention
SAMSA launched a new Certificate in compliance with the amended STCW Convention and the Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning,
Training and Certifications) Regulations, 2013, as amended (the Regulations). The issuing of the new certificate is in compliance with the
2010 Amendments (Manila Amendments) on the STCW Convention 1978. These amendments were effective as of 1st January 2012. In
terms of the amendments, from between 1st July 2013 and 1st January 2017 all seafarers are required to undertake additional training
in accordance with the Manila Amendments and hold the requisite certification compliant with the amended STCW Convention. The
competence of seafarers is the most critical factor in the safe and efficient operation of ships, and has a direct impact on the safety of
life at sea and the protection of the marine environment.
SAMSA ANNUAL REPORT | 081