The Kerala Merchant Navy Officers’ Association, as it prepares to celebrate International Day of the Seafarer here on Thursday, has drawn attention to the State’s unfulfilled dream of having a maritime university for higher studies in the area.
The association also appealed to the Mercantile Marine Department to appoint a Shipping Master based in Kochi and highlighted the need for an examination centre for Global Maritime Distress and Safety System in the city.
The other points raised by the association include the necessity of providing Automatic Identification System for small vessels and fishing boats, which would enhance the security of the country. Constitution of the Kerala Maritime Board and need for a Seamen’s Club and Welfare Centre for seafarers arriving in Kochi too have been highlighted by the association.
The Seafarer’s Day is being celebrated under the joint aegis of the association and Central Institute of Fisheries and Nautical Engineering Training.
The programmes are scheduled to start at 4 p.m. at the CIFNET hall on Foreshore Road.
