June 15, 2020

President Zuma says SAIMI will help develop skills

President Jacob Zuma has welcomed the establishment of the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI), saying it will help develop the skills needed in the maritime and related sectors.

Speaking in the Port of Port Elizabeth after inspection progress in Operation Phakisa-related initiatives, the President said “without the necessary skills base, we will not be able to grow the Oceans Economy. “We are therefore very happy to announce the establishment of the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) based at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. “This has been achieved through a Two Hundred and Ninety-Five Million Rand (R295 million) contribution by the National Skills Fund. “This institute is responsible for the implementation of all skills development initiatives of the Oceans Economy in Operation Phakisa, under the leadership of the Department of Higher Education and Training,” he said. President Zuma said the government has unlocked investments amounting to about R17 billion in the Oceans Economy, thanks to Operation Phakisa. Over 4 500 jobs have been created in the various sectors since the launch of the initiative, he added.

Experiential sea training for cadets that is managed by SAIMI has also received a boost. “Two bulk carriers are now registered on the South African Ships Register and will be using the Port of Port Elizabeth as the home port, providing opportunities for South African crew and cadets.

“A further registered vessel will be using Cape Town as its home port,” said President Zuma.

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September 19, 2024

WATCH: Business Spotlight | South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI)

While Women’s Month has come to an end, the conversation around women's leadership in the maritime sector continues. In an insightful interview with Business Day TV, Nwabisa Matoti, Acting Research Director at SAIMI, highlights the strides made in advancing women in maritime careers as she was interviewed by Business Day TV. The sector is seeing a shift towards greater gender diversity and inclusion, with women playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the oceans economy. Watch the interview on the link below.