MUSCAT: Oman has taken a major step towards enhancing its maritime capabilities through the 'Maritime and Ship Controls’ Training Programme, jointly launched by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) in collaboration with Tamara Overseas and the Australian Maritime College (AMC).
The initiative — the first of its kind in the Sultanate of Oman — reflects a shared vision to equip Oman’s maritime professionals with globally recognised, practical skills.
Over four intensive days, 25 participants underwent a series of workshops, simulations, and ship inspections designed to build technical proficiency and regulatory insight.
Led by Chris McGuire, a maritime trainer from AMC Search, the programme combined classroom learning with hands-on experience, including mock inspections and a visit to AAL Melbourne at Port Sultan Qaboos.
McGuire noted that participants “gained a strong understanding of how international regulations are practically applied by the MoTCIT to Oman-flagged vessels and those visiting Omani ports.”
Ali Al Seliteni, Ship Registrar, said the course “significantly enhanced my skills in certificate auditing and developing ship inspection checklists, further strengthened by practical, hands-on inspection experience that provided valuable real-world application.”
The training’s success stemmed from the partnership’s alignment of vision and expertise.
The Tamara Overseas team’s commitment to educational development, supported by MoTCIT’s strategic goals and AMC’s international maritime experience, ensured the programme’s real-world impact.
Mubaraka Tyebbhoy, Senior Manager at Tamara, emphasised the long-term vision: “Practical skills-based training is the only way training should be. The ship inspection component has taken MoTCIT participants to the next level, giving them transferable skills for their future careers.”
The initiative forms part of a broader national upskilling strategy aligned with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises education, innovation and workforce development. Tamara Overseas plans to extend such collaborations with international institutions to develop future industry-focused training programmes in Oman, designed to meet global standards and boost local employability.
“The maritime sector is a critical and necessary starting point,” a joint statement from MoTCIT and Tamara noted.
“This programme represents the beginning of a long-term strategy to build a sustainable, skilled and globally competitive workforce for Oman’s maritime industry.”
By fostering practical learning and international cooperation, the programme underscores Oman’s growing commitment to maritime excellence — building not just capabilities, but confidence in its place within the global shipping and logistics arena.
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