VPPL, SCI Support Maritime Skill Development; 11 Students Selected for GP Rating Pre-Sea Training

By Admin

09 Feb, 2026

Introduction
In a significant step towards strengthening India’s maritime workforce, Vadhvan Port Project Ltd. (VPPL), in collaboration with The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI), has reaffirmed its commitment to maritime skill development. The initiative marks the selection of 11 students for the prestigious GP Rating Pre-Sea Training Course, opening new career pathways in the seafaring sector.

Official Confirmation in the Presence of Senior Leadership
The confirmation letters were formally presented to the selected candidates in the presence of Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways; Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW); along with other senior officials and dignitaries. Their presence underscored the importance the government and maritime institutions place on skill development and employment generation in the sector.

Fully Funded Training Programme by VPPL
The six-month GP Rating Pre-Sea Training Programme will be conducted at the SCI–Maritime Training Institute (SCI-MTI). Demonstrating strong corporate and social responsibility, VPPL is fully funding the programme by bearing the entire course fee of ₹2.5 lakh per student. This ensures that deserving candidates receive high-quality maritime education without any financial burden, making professional training accessible and inclusive.

Building Skills for Global Maritime Standards
The GP Rating Pre-Sea Training Course is structured to provide comprehensive development for aspiring seafarers. It focuses on essential seamanship skills, technical knowledge, safety procedures, and hands-on industry exposure. The curriculum is designed to align with global maritime standards, preparing candidates to meet the operational and safety demands of modern shipping.

Certification and Career Opportunities at Sea
Upon successful completion of the training and qualification in the Exit Examination conducted by the Board of Examination for Seafarers Trust (BEST), participants will receive the requisite certification. This certification makes them eligible for employment across the maritime sector, enabling them to build sustainable and long-term careers at sea.

Strengthening India’s Seafaring Workforce
This initiative reflects the shared vision of VPPL and SCI to nurture skilled maritime professionals and contribute to the growth of India’s seafaring talent pool. It aligns closely with the government’s broader efforts to promote maritime education, enhance employment opportunities, and support inclusive growth within the ports, shipping, and waterways ecosystem.

By investing in training and skill development, VPPL and SCI are not only empowering young aspirants but also reinforcing India’s position as a reliable source of qualified maritime professionals on the global stage.