Ocean training opportunity

A sea training opportunity for Cook Islanders on board exploration vessels in international waters has been confirmed by the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA).

The authority’s commissioner Paul Lynch said the new “At Sea Training” gives a chance for Cook Islanders to go on scientific exploration vessels.

Lynch said this is part of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) obligations on contractors to provide fully funded, training and capacity building opportunities for suitable people from developing nations.

Lynch said: “I sincerely believe it is essential that we Cook Islanders gain more real world deep-sea knowledge, information and high level practical ‘hands on’ scientific survey and research training.

“Then we will grow in skills and know more about our deep sea environment. So far, two Cook Islanders have performed very well on these fully funded training opportunities.”

Lynch said the ISA Training has been on-going every year.

“From 2013 to date, a total of 45 ISA training places were provided by nine contractors. The types of training include at-sea training, engineering training, fellowship training, Master’s and PhD programmes and Workshop Internships.

Lynch said that: “I ask our young, qualified people to send in your CVs and register your interest with me. Then I can help with a SBMA Letter of Support for any of our interested and suitable Applicants. Even if you are still at University, let us know if you are interested.”

Meanwhile, a list of training opportunities that are currently open for nominations are on the SBMA website or contact the SBMA on 29193.

            -Release / LL