The principal of the Science and Technical College of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Okoloba, Nenepamo Williams, has disclosed that 35 students were admitted as pioneer members of the institution.
The College, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, was set up to train Nigerian cadets who plan on pursuing careers in the seafaring profession.
Nenepamo disclosed this when members of the Senate Committee on Marine transport paid a visit to the school.
He said that the school plans for supplementary admission for students into the institution had been concluded. He explained that with time, the College will become a world- class institution with facilities to train seafarers.
In his words, “The school officially commenced operation on the January 6, 2014 with 35 students at the commencement and since then, we have run the school for over six weeks and students have commenced the mid-term.
“First of all, we deal with the general area of education, which is followed by the technical aspect of education and we also teach maritime related courses.”
He also said that with time, the school would get affiliated to other world-class maritime institutions so as to ensure that graduates get international certification.
“Right now, we are working with Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), I personally went to NABTEB to register our courses.
“At the completion of their programme, students will be awarded NABTEB certificates.
“What we are focusing on is how to can give young Nigerians basic technical training in technical education in preparation to further their studies in other conventional institutions or the maritime university that NIMASA is currently constructing.
“In addition to this, the foundation we give to the student in this school, will also enhance the study in the engineering field, particularly marine engineering,” he said.
On the relationship with the community, the school principal said that “the warm reception accorded the Senators is an indication of the cordial relationship between the school and the community.”
Williams also disclosed that the school is a non-fee paying school until NIMASA decides otherwise.
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