During the recent Seafarers Day celebrations which was attended by a host of dignatries it was proposed to have a Maritime University which is the need of the hour as this state is basically a seafaring state with numerous sailors and the likes having their base over here but limited resources at their disposal to rise up the ladder as they have to travel to distant places for their exams and different courses. We have a MMD at Headland Sada which only has an endorsement centre for certificates and some surveyors for conducting surveys on ships berthed in port. Another long standing demand is of having a good seafarers club in Mormugao or Vasco with all facilities like indoor games, a mini bar and library as seafarers nowadays after long voyages and very short port stays long to go ashore and have some recreation. Hopefully the government of the day will accede to this request as the sailors are a lifeline to international trade.
LUCAS D'SOUZA, Verna
