MARGAO
This wasn’t a government-organized job fair, but an initiative from an seamen’s organization from the land of seafarers community in Salcete to the State’s hinterland in a bid to educate and inspire aspiring seafarers to pursue a career at sea.
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) organized informative session in Quepem highlighted the promising career opportunities available in the maritime industry. The event also witnessed several speakers who shared their insight and experience in the industry, with GSAI president Frank Viegas laying stress on the importance of seafaring as a career.
Merchant Navy Captains, Chief Engineers, representatives of maritime companies, besides other professionals guided the participants, as the event evoked a huge response from the aspiring seafarers.
Capt. Jerry Fernandes set the ball rolling as he provided an overview of the career options available at sea. He highlighted the various roles and responsibilities, including deck officers, engineers, and ratings.
Chief Engineer Lenson Fernandes shared his experience onboard the ship and the challenges that have to be faced from TME (Trainee marine Engineer) to Chief engineer.
Sabina Dsouza, director of Kamaxi shared her journey as a woman in the maritime sector. She discussed the challenges she faced and emphasized the increasing opportunities for women at sea. She
encouraged aspiring female seafarers to pursue their dreams and assured them of a supportive environment on board.
Dr Anisha Cardozo, a maritime medical professional, addressed the healthcare services available to seafarers. She emphasized the significance of medical examinations and highlighted the need for mental health support in the industry.
Parixit Pai Fondekar the founder of Kamaxi, a reputed maritime company, shared their expertise and experiences with the attendees, who discussed the challenges and rewards of a career at sea. He emphasized the importance of acquiring the necessary qualifications and skills to excel in this field.
Shedding light on the offshore oil and gas sector, Emiliano Fernandes explained the roles and responsibilities of a rig superintendent, including overseeing drilling operations, managing personnel, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
Says GSAI president Frank: “With the rapid growth of the shipping industry, the demand for skilled professionals in marine-related roles has significantly increased. The session emphasized the diverse range of career paths available to individuals seeking adventure, global exploration, and rewarding job prospects in this dynamic sector”.
He added: "The maritime industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, from deck officers and marine engineers to maritime lawyers and project managers, we aimed to create awareness about the immense potential within the maritime sector and encourage young Goans to consider a career at sea."
Even as MLA Altone D’Costa highlighted the significance of careers in the maritime industry and the various opportunities available for individuals interested in a career at sea, the GSAI President has disclosed plans to organise more such events in the future to continue disseminating knowledge and fostering enthusiasm about the maritime industry among the youth in Goa.
