A new Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative (SDLI) providing training in technology systems to African-based crews, reports that its first trainees are now set to complete the programme, with a waiting list poised to enrol in the next intake.
Based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, the programme was founded by Fieldbase and is sponsored by KVH and Intelsat, with the goal of equipping seafarers with the skills required to work within an increasingly digitalised maritime industry.
SDLI includes a mix of classroom training and ongoing onboard education that covers topics from basic computer skills, document sharing and digital signatures to the use of satellite communication systems, electronic charts, remote service and support tools, and the basics of cybersecurity.
“KVH and our partner, Intelsat, are thrilled to support the Seafarer Digital Literacy Initiative,” said Chris Watson, KVH’s vice president of marketing and communications.
“The commercial maritime industry relies upon seafarers around the globe, with African seafarers and ports playing a vital part. SDLI and the training team established by Fieldbase are leading the way in providing bridge crews with the basic digital literacy levels necessary to enable them to utilise digital tools and improve operations for their companies, support their crews, and aid with the safe operation of their vessels.”
Based on the programme’s success over the next year, it may expand from Port Harcourt to Lagos and other African ports, the partners said.
