The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), in partnership with the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i), SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), and supported by the Singapore Shipping Association, has launched the enhanced Tripartite Maritime Training Award (TMTA).
The TMTA supports mid-career individuals to acquire the skills and certifications needed to serve as 3rd Officers and 5th Engineers. Under the enhanced TMTA, the training duration will be reduced from 31 months to 22 months. As informed, high training standards will be maintained through a more streamlined curriculum that strengthens core maritime competencies, incorporates greater use of advanced ship simulators for both navigational and engineering training, and optimises onboard training to accelerate skills development.
The enhanced Tripartite Maritime Training Award provides mid-career individuals with the skills and financial support to make a successful transition into a rewarding maritime career at sea, which will thereafter also open many pathways to careers ashore
… Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, explained. Meanwhile, Mary Liew, General Secretary of SMOU added that the enhanced TMTA is a strong example of tripartism at work—where unions, industry, and government come together to equip mid-career individuals with the skills they need for a meaningful and sustainable career at sea. It also provides a second chance for individuals looking to pivot into a new and fulfilling profession.
With a shorter and more streamlined training curriculum, aspiring seafarers can now look forward to an accelerated and well-supported career pathway in the maritime industry
… noted Tan Kok Yam, Chief Executive of SSG.
To provide better financial support during the training phase, monthly training allowances will be increased from S$1,200 to S$2,200, with co-funding by MPA, e2i, and SMOU.
Stronger mentorship and industry support
As part of the enhanced TMTA, a structured mentorship programme will be introduced to support cadets in their transition to a seafaring career. Experienced seafarers will provide personalised guidance to help cadets navigate both classroom learning and real-world challenges at sea.
MPA and the Young SMOU committee will facilitate these mentorship arrangements, ensuring that cadets receive practical advice, career insights, and support throughout their training and into their early career.
Seafaring is a vital profession that keeps Singapore’s maritime trade moving and our economy connected to the world. The enhanced TMTA programme opens doors for mid-career individuals to embark on this meaningful path, equipping them with the skills and support to succeed
… said Ms Caryn Lim, Chief Executive Officer of e2i.
Applications for the TMTA will open in April 2025. Interested applicants can find out more details about the programme here.
A Memorandum of Understanding to enhance the TMTA will be signed on 25 March 2025 with SMOU, e2i, and SSG. As part of the collaboration, government agencies, SMOU, and industry will commit S$8.5 million over the next three years to support the TMTA’s enhanced training programme.
