MPA Singapore Launches Port Management Programme

MPA Academy, the training arm of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), has launched today its inaugural Port Management Programme.

The programme is one of the new flagship programmes developed by the recently re-positioned MPA Academy for overseas port and maritime officials.

The first run of the programme was attended by 15 officials from around the world.

The five-day programme, which runs till 12 December 2014, has been developed for port masters, harbour masters and middle managers from various maritime and port authorities.

MPA’s Chief Executive, Mr Andrew Tan, said, “MPA believes that developing maritime talent is a common denominator that cuts across different maritime nations. This will help to ensure that the global maritime workforce is well prepared to meet the industry’s current and future needs.”

The programme covers a wide spectrum of topics such as master planning for container terminals maximising efficiencies in container/cargo terminal operations, vessel traffic management, emergency planning and response, port security and crisis communications. The topics will be delivered by professionals from the industry, adjunct trainers from the MPA Academy and officers from MPA’s line divisions.

Capt Mark Heah, an adjunct trainer from the MPA Academy, said, “MPA Academy’s Port Management Programme will allow participants to understand how MPA prepares for and deals with major oil spills and other marine incidents, and the various initiatives to maintain a safe, secure and efficient port. The sessions will allow participants to discuss the success factors and the pitfalls for mutual learning and benefits.”

Besides lectures, participants will also be going on site visits to facilities such as PSA Terminals, MPA’s Port Operations Control Centre, Integrated Simulation Centre as well as Oil Spill Response Limited to gain insights into Singapore’s maritime operations.